Coping with emergencies, emotional support, and wartime daily routine

Substance Abuse

During these difficult times, when the mind is coping with stress and trauma on an unprecedented scale, we seek relief. Some find relief in alcohol and other substances. Use of these substances to relieve the pressure, to disconnect or to fall asleep may soon become dependence and place users at risk of growing addicted to these substances.

Various mental symptoms express a normal response to recent uneasy events. Treatment involves recruiting mental strength and support from one's immediate surroundings, which helps to most of us. If a problem persists, it is also possible and preferable to seek professional assistance.

Healthy alternatives

If you are in a state of panic, fear, anxiety, emptiness, loneliness and pain, you should choose things that are healthy for both body and mind to let off some steam and find some peace. Healthy ways to ease our mind may be:

  • Engaging in hobbies
  • Physical activity
  • Reading
  • Going outdoors
  • Seeking help from friends, family and professionals

Responsible consumption

The availability of alcohol, cannabis and stress-relieving medications at these times and their use on a spectrum between medical use, recreational use and use that causes dependency and even addition. This availability requires us to make informed and responsible use of these substances.

Prescription medications for stress relief

  • Only as directed - Use prescription sedatives only if a doctor has prescribed them for you and follow their instructions.
  • Do not share - Do not give your prescription medications to friends or family; instead, refer them to a doctor who can provide what may help them.

Alcohol and cannabis abuse

  1. Know your limits. We all have different reactions to different levels of consumption. You should know your body and learn to tell when you should stop, when you are using these substances for self-medication and when you are using them as a means to escape from facing reality.
  2. Quantify your consumption times and quantities. Exercise moderation and self-awareness. If your consumption increases in either frequency or quantities, seek professional help.

Note that cannabis has not been proven to be effective in treating traumatic stress immediately after trauma, and it may actually do more harm than good. Therefore, you should only use cannabis for the relief of chronic conditions.

Further information about harmful behavior and substance abuse

Be aware that mixing prescription drugs with alcohol or cannabis can harm how your nervous system works.

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