There is no instruction manual on how to deal with a pandemic and unfortunately COVID-19 has presented most individuals with challenges. Amanda Bolte, Substance Use Counselor at Eagleview Community Health System in Oquawka, says the pandemic has generated mental health concerns and substance use has skyrocketed:
“The mental health has been really rough. We have been in lockdown for months not being able to see our family and friends like we normally would. The mental health issues with this coincide with substance use because when people get depressed or anxious they self-medicate. They self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. Looking at alcohol sales compared to this time last year, it is three times if not more than what it was a this time last year,” Bolte states.
The Eagleview Community Health System in Oquawka can be reached at 867-2202 for anyone seeking counseling for substance use.
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