When you’re stressed and emotionally drained, it’s tempting to pour yourself a drink for relief. Unfortunately, that soothing sensation won’t last. When the alcohol leaves your system and your negative feelings come back, it’s all too easy to grab another glass. This can be an unhealthy habit to fall into, no matter what you’re going through. Here, Banko Beverage Co. offers some responsible drinking advice to help you and your loved ones stay safe during emotionally difficult times, especially when you’re forced to quarantine during a pandemic.
Don’t Buy Too Much
If you’re worried about your ability to moderate your drinking, you can limit yourself by reducing what’s available. Shop for a little booze at a time. While this is helpful financial advice, it’s also a good way to stay responsible. You can’t drink more than you own, no matter how tempted you are.
Set a Hard Limit
Second, set some limits and stick to them. If you’re not sure what a healthy limit looks like, be sure to do your research. Health.gov suggests drinking only one serving per day for women and up to two daily servings for men. Of course, everyone’s body chemistry is unique, so it’s also important to know yourself and what you can safely handle. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you need help with setting some limits for yourself or if you’re concerned about your recent intake.
Find Other Ways to Cope
Unfortunately, it’s tough to stick to your limits if alcohol is your only way to decompress. When the booze wears off, what else is there to do to cheer up? That’s why it’s important to have other outlets, such as:
- Staying connected with your family and friends, even if it’s digitally
- Filling your free time with engaging hobbies that keep your mind active
- Taking normal breaks and maintaining a regular schedule while working from home
- Taking a walk outside to get some fresh air in a new environment
- Playing with a pet or considering adopting one
If you’re less stressed to begin with, you’ll be less tempted to rely on alcohol for relief, and it’ll be that much easier to moderate your consumption and stick to healthy limits.
Keep It Social
You might not be able to head to the bar during the pandemic, but there are other ways to stay social while enjoying your favorite drinks. Friend groups, families, and coworkers nationwide are getting creative with virtual dinner parties and happy hours. Turn on your video chat, pop open a bottle or can, and engage in some meaningful conversation with the people you care about most. While there’s nothing wrong with having an alcoholic beverage in solitude, doing so too often can lead to a more serious problem.
Get Advice from the Experts
With some self-control and the right advice, you can keep your relationship with alcohol a positive one – even during difficult times. Contact Banko Beverage Co. today for more responsible drinking tips or to find out where we distribute our products in the Greater Lehigh Valley.