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Fewer calls to addiction hotline after liquor store shutdown

Two weeks ago, in an attempt to slow down the coronavirus pandemic, Pennsylvania decided to close all liquor stores.

Since then, the state drug and alcohol officials report a lower number of alcohol-related phone calls to 800-662-HELP, the official hotline for alcohol-related issues, as well as a drop in failed alcohol tests.

Furthermore, referrals for detoxification also appear to be on the decrease.

At the time of writing, it is unknown whether the coronavirus pandemic has played a role in this; a possible reason could be people stocking up on alcohol before the closure.

According to Jennifer Smith, secretary of drug and alcohol programmes in Pennsylvania, many factors could contribute.

She claims there are thousands of alcoholics in Pennsylvania and that withdrawal is no joke, as it can be a life-threatening condition.

According to Smith, these are the symptoms:

  • Hallucinations
  • Tremors
  • Blood pressure changes
  • Seizures

Despite shutting down 598 commercial locations of the Fine Wine & Good Spirits brand, online sales continue as normal, albeit in a limited way.

Also, other opportunities and locations for buying alcohol are still available, including:

  • Gas stations
  • Grocery stores
  • Microbreweries

Governor Tom Wolf ordered all non-essential businesses to remain closed until further notice, so it may take a while before we see liquor stores re-opening.

Since substance abuse hotlines are essential services, they continue to operate as normal.

Smith is convinced that their field is equipped to handle the situation.

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