When things get stressful, painful, or just hard, it’s easy to lean on alcohol to get us through. Recent statistics revealed that 25% of US adults increased their drinking during COVID.

So, how do you know what’s an acceptable level of drinking versus a problem? That’s what guest, Dr. George Koob, Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is here to discuss. 

In our conversation, George walks us through what happens in the brain when we numb emotional pain with alcohol, both the immediate benefits and the many downsides. He defines what’s acceptable vs. problematic drinking and how you can evaluate your relationship with alcohol.

George offers steps on how to cut back on drinking and ways to still fit in socially without a drink in your hand. Finally, he shares the story of his mother’s alcohol use disorder and offers ways to help those you love who may struggle with alcohol. 

For show notes and links mentioned, visit: https://bit.ly/GTIPodcastNotes

To sign up for 2 Tip Tuesday, visit: https://bit.ly/2TipTuesday

2 Tip Tuesday is a weekly email that break down podcast episodes into practical resilience tips you can put into action straight away.