I almost feel like shouting eurika.

But of course this is an important reason why liquor stores must stay open. It never would have occurred to me, but some smart public health officials must have known what they were doing.

Of course, openly stating this reason would be a tough sell to a public that views alcoholism through a moralizing rather than a medical lens.

I absolutely understand the temptation to drink too much during the pandemic. Fortunately, I’m just vain enough to worry more about my weight during a period of reduced physical activity. I’m no longer even having a drink with dinner most of the time, because I don’t want to deal with the consequences of the extra calories.

But I understand the temptation to drink to deal with boredom and stress.

I’m glad you’re writing openly about this, because it’s an important topic for all of us right now.