By Lynn Dobmeier Pullano
Immediate impacts of Covid-19 on our health and economy are obvious and insidious. Less visible are dangers to children when anxiety-ridden parents increasingly turn to alcohol and other substances for solace during the pandemic.
In addition to increases in domestic violence, there is reason for concern about substance use by expectant women. As a consultant working with national and local organizations to ensure the well-being of children, this is painfully evident to me.
Historically, substance addiction has increased during times of societal trauma like world wars and economic recessions. Coincident with Covid-19 spread, the Nielsen market research firm reports spikes in U.S. sales of alcoholic beverages.
It’s critical that pregnant women or those trying to conceive during this crisis avoid drinking or improper substance use. The toll on their unborn children could be profound.