In some countries, studies have been appearing recently uncovering the problem of “pandemic drinking” where people drink to cope with the boredom (during lockdowns, etc) and the stress of COVID. The Royal College of Psychiatrists in the UK estimated that in June 2020, more than 8.4 million people in England were drinking at higher-risk levels, up from 4.8 million in February 2020–just 4 months earlier.
In North Yorkshire, there is a free service available to any resident who is struggling with alcohol or drug issues that are affecting their health and wellbeing. North Yorkshire Horizons has doctors and nurses who work as part of the organisation and have been rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.
Adults living in North Yorkshire can refer themselves directly by ringing 01723 330730. You can also email: info@nyhorizons.org.uk.
North Yorkshire Horizons provides one to one support (by telephone or face-to-face), provides prescriptions/detoxes (if these are judged appropriate by the medical staff) and also recovery groups (some of these are online). To find out more go to: https://www.nyhorizons.org.uk.
