Aspire Behavioral Health on substance abuse during holidays

ALBANY, Ga. – The holidays are certainly a time to celebrate, but it’s easy to go overboard. That’s why we spoke with aspire about what you or a loved one can do to celebrate responsibly this holiday season.

We met with Malcom Bynum of Aspire Behavioral to talk about substance abuse during the holiday season…

And… how it can unfortunately be a little more than common this time of year.

“When you combine these elevated levels of stress with what some people would consider like societally accepted holiday drinking, it can lead to an uptick in basically consumption of alcohol and drugs,” said Malcom Bynum, Chief Clinical Officer, Aspire Behavioral Health.

Bynum goes on to say that they haven’t seen as many people as they expected for substance abuse in December, but that could change quickly.

“There are certainly reasons as to why that occurs, but wasn’t what I was expecting. So essentially we kind of have a perfect storm of people needing more help and then also being less likely to reach out for it,” said Bynum.

No matter how many people end up coming through those doors, Aspire wants to lend a hand to those in need this holiday season.

“I think this time of year is really difficult for individuals in recovery. And, the main point is that a relapse does not define who you are,” said Bynum.

And… Bynum promises they will try to fit in anyone looking to come clean.

“We offer group and individual counseling sessions that are really open to the public Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. So, you don’t need an appointment. You come here present and most of the time we are able to work you in to see a clinician that very same day,” said Bynum.

And… Aspire encourages people that if you or someone you know has a problem with substance abuse to reach out to them.

Brian Roche reporting.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 News South Georgia. All rights reserved.