The number of Michigan residents abusing alcohol increased sharply during the pandemic, a problem seen nationwide. However, as other states begin to see their consumption drop back to pre-pandemic levels, alcohol abuse in Michigan is still going up. Dr. Abdulhassan Saad is a board-certified addiction specialist based in Dearborn. He told Michigan News Network new laws in the state will make this problem even worse.
“We are starting to see self-service at bars and restaurants, which is permitted,” Saad said. “Also, you have the curb side pickup and delivery on the rise, and the younger people, like 17-year-olds, are able to serve alcohol now as well. These laws are helping local businesses given the issues with finding employees and bartenders, but it’s concerning, giving the accessibility to alcoholics in the state.”
Dr. Saad says the average Michigan resident consumes just under 1,000 alcoholic beverages each year. That’s significantly higher than the national rate.
