By David R. Shorey, East County Program Director, Institute for Public Strategies
April 9, 2024 (San Diego) -- On January 22, 2024, floods displaced more than a thousand San Diego County residents and severely damaged thousands of homes. Many affected were East County residents, with parts of Spring Valley and Lemon Grove hit hardest. In the wake of a disaster like this, it's not uncommon for individuals to turn to alcohol, prescription medications, or other substances as a means of coping. The upheaval, stress, and trauma triggered by such events can lead some to seek solace in these substances, believing they provide an escape from the turmoil. What may seem like a reprieve can quickly spiral into a long-term struggle, exacerbating existing problems and creating new ones.
The aftermath of a traumatic event often brings about heightened anxiety, depression, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances, driving some to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. While these substances may seem to offer temporary relief, they ultimately disrupt natural sleep cycles, jeopardize physical health, strain relationships, and pave the way for dependence and addiction.
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By David R. Shorey, East County Program Director, Institute for Public Strategies
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