Contributed by Tiffany Hall
Recover Alaska is encouraging Alaskans to be more mindful of their drinking habits during a season often synonymous with overindulging in treats and spirits, especially amidst a global pandemic. Through their partnership with an Alaska-made mobile app called Step Away, users are able to identify triggers and habits early on.
Since the pandemic started, 1 in 3 Alaskans have reported using more alcohol than pre-pandemic, according to the Department of Health and Social Services. As a way for people to understand their relationship with alcohol, University of Alaska Anchorage Department of Psychology Professor Patrick Dulin, Ph.D., created the Step Away app as a tool for users to reduce their drinking, maintain their sobriety, and understand their drinking habits.
“Not only are people struggling with their sobriety right now, there are also people out there using more alcohol due to stresses related to the pandemic,” said Tiffany Hall, executive director of Recover Alaska. “The Step Away app is an amazing tool anyone can use that really gets to know you through a series of questions and personalizes solutions based on your specific habits and needs. It helps you understand your relationship with alcohol and what you can do to make healthy changes. Best thing, it’s always there for you when you need it.”
Recover Alaska has partnered with Step Away after it launched in July. While many of us indulge in mindless eating and drinking out of stress or holiday cheer, the nonprofit is encouraging Alaskans to check out the app to see if you really should “step away.”
“Staying sober during the holidays is already tough, and with a pandemic in the mix, it's making it even more challenging as triggers are everywhere and in-person help is harder to come by,” said Hall. “Whether you’re sober or even sober curious, this app really keeps you accountable. Between the visual graph of progress and the alerts that warn about possible triggers, this app supports and empowers people to take control of their lives. Recover Alaska is thrilled to be able to offer this help free of charge for people in need.
The Step Away app is available to download now on Apple and Android app stores for free using a special access code provided by Recover Alaska. Otherwise, it’s free for the first week, and then can be purchased for a monthly fee of $4.99.
About Recover Alaska
Recover Alaska is a multi-sector action group pursuing a solutions-based approach to reduce excessive alcohol use and harms across the state. Partners include the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority, Mat-Su Health Foundation, Providence Health and Services Alaska, Rasmuson Foundation, Southcentral Foundation, State of Alaska’s Department of Health and Social Services, and University of Alaska Anchorage. The vision for Recover Alaska is for Alaskans to live free from the consequences of alcohol misuse, so we are empowered to achieve our full potential. For more information, visit recoveralaska.org.