Cameron Guthrie, Renee Garing and Mitch Duncan.

Covid-19 is having a massive effect on us all. Whether you remain at work or have been stood down/let go or are working from home, whether you have family or are isolating alone, nothing remains as it was. 

With the stress and anxiety that accompanies the current situation, if we drink at all, we may be at risk of drinking a lot more than usual. At some point, our lives will start to return to a pre virus normality, even if it is not exactly the same and we don’t want to be struggling to pull back on the booze.

Most people’s routines have been thrown out the window and we are separated from family, friends and other loved ones. In this situation it is normal to find one’s self drinking more than normal.

Here are some tips and information to help you make good decisions:

  • If you find yourself isolating at home, create a routine that mirrors your old work routine. Get up around the same time, include exercise if you have the mind to and eat at your regular mealtimes. Set some goals for each day. Set rules around the amount and when you might drink that mirror your pre Covid life.
  • If you find yourself thinking about alcohol during the day, set yourself tasks and remember that if you would normally be a work, you would likely not be thinking about alcohol.
  • Remember that cravings for alcohol pass and see if you can ride out the desire by distracting yourself with tasks.
  • Know what you are going to do tomorrow and set up your routine. Decide the day before what that will look like and stick to it.
  • Make a point to remain connected to friends and family, not having other human connection can dangerous for us- We are Social animals!
  • Be mindful that you may find yourself drinking alone where you did not before and this will be something to watch.
     

Check the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) website for information on alcohol and other drugs.

For advice and someone to talk to, you can reach out to: 1300 022 293 or email at aodintake@bcyf.org.au

St John of God Hospital and Barwon Child Youth Family, proud partners of Just Think.