8/14/2019 Normal Restraints Regarding Alcohol Disappear During Holidays

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Contact: Brian Taylor (248) 849-2236 Dec. 29, 2005

Manager, Media RelationsCell: (248) 756-3264

Pager: (248) 367-7954Brian.taylor@stjohn.org

BRIGHTON HOSPITAL ADDICTION EXPERT WARNS OF HOLIDAY DANGERS

While drinking and drug use patterns change throughout the years, one thing that has remained constant is the

fact that the use of alcohol during the holiday season always increases, creating behaviors that can have can

dangerous consequences.

Traditionally, the time between Thanksgiving and the New Year should to be a time of joy and hope, but it is also

time of excess. We sometimes celebrate by eating and drinking more than our usual amounts. Many people fee

that since the holidays only come once a year, this over-indulgence is not a problem. When it comes to alcohol,

that rationale could be a big mistake.

“Problems with alcohol are not just limited to those people who have identified themselves as alcoholics or those

who fit the specific definition,” says John A. Hopper M.D., vice president of medical affairs at Brighton Hospital, a

member of St. John Health. “The holidays pose a dangerous temptation for people who tend to believe the norma

restraints regarding alcohol disappear during holidays and everyone else will look the other way during these

times to excuse their excesses.”

Dr. Hopper says people who consider themselves moderate or social drinkers can easily find themselves dealing

with an alcohol-related concern this time of year. The fact is that the abundance of parties and the celebratory

atmosphere puts pressure on people to drink. Therefore, anyone can end up having one too many without

realizing it.

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In addition, the strong emotions of the season can exacerbate existing alcohol concerns, according to Dr. Hoppe

He says that along with the celebration comes stress and depression caused by financial problems, sad memorie

and concerns with interpersonal relationships. The increased time demands of shopping, parties, and planning

can create fatigue, tension and anxiety. People tend to have high, even idealized expectations for the holidays.

If they are disappointed they may drink to console themselves.

Brighton Hospital, a member of St. John Health, was founded more than 50 years ago and continues to be a

standard-bearer and innovator in chemical dependency treatment based on the medical model and 12-step

program participation. Brighton Hospital is a fully licensed and accredited acute care hospital and is staffed by

addiction-medicine physicians and addiction-credentialed clinicians.

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