Managing Alcohol Use Challenging During Pandemic

New York Times article highlights Dr. Murphy's research

Dr. James Murphy, professor of Clinical Psychology and an expert in alcohol and drug use prevention and treatment has developed novel brief intervention approaches that are intended to reach the large number of individuals who experience some degree of harm or problems related to their alcohol and drug use but may not be motivated to reduce their drinking or to seek formal treatment. His research on brief alcohol interventions has helped to establish their efficacy with a variety of young adult populations, expanded their reach by developing novel computerized and mobile technology-delivered adaptations, and identified the particular components that are most effective. This research has contributed to the evidence base that has facilitated the widespread dissemination of these interventions in educational and health care settings. Murphy's research has been continuously funded by the National Institute of Health for the past 15 years.

He recently contributed to an article by journalist Julia Banbridge in the New York Times titled "Reimagine Your Relationship with Alcohol" that provided advice for understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic has increased risk for heavy drinking by increasing stress and reducing much of the positive elements of life that give us structure and rewarding alternatives to alcohol (e.g., socializing, work, exercise, group or community activities). The article also focused on practical strategies to reduce your alcohol use if you feel that it is impacting your health or wellness. These include attempting to monitor your alcohol consumption, set goals for when and how much to drink (if you choose to drink), limit the amount of alcohol in your home, and develop structured (pandemic-safe) routines that include meaningful and enjoyable alcohol-free activities.

Read the full New York Times article here. For more information, contact Murphy at jgmurphy@memphis.edu.