Recent statistics from Rosstat show a surprising reversal of a long-term trend in Russia: alcohol addiction cases among residents have started to rise after a decade of decline. In a discussion with Gazeta, Muslim Muslimov, who serves on the Health Commission of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation and leads the National Association of Health Managers, framed this shift as a signal for broader public health action. He emphasized that revisiting proven health strategies from the past could help address today’s challenges.
The core issue, according to Muslimov, is a complex mix of external pressures and personal stress. He argued that a holistic approach is required, one that involves the state, civil society, and individuals themselves. The contention is that keeping people engaged, providing pathways to recovery, and enabling a fresh start are essential for rebuilding resilience. In Muslimov’s view, reintroducing sanatorium and resort treatment, once popular in Soviet times, could play a central role. Historically, millions of citizens benefited from these programs each year, gaining renewed health and strength. He noted that such retreats contribute not only to physical well-being but also to mental and moral vitality, thereby offering a meaningful response to burnout and fatigue.
Burnout, an increasingly visible issue for workers around the world including in Russia, is another focal point. This syndrome, characterized by emotional exhaustion, reduced performance, and detachment from work, has drawn attention from health professionals and policymakers alike. It is no accident that the World Health Organization now recognizes burnout in the International Classification of Diseases. Police and business leaders are urged to monitor employee well-being regularly and equip managers with stress-management techniques. The professional medical community would support these efforts, guiding organizations on prevention, early detection, and interventions that can reduce the impact of burnout on productivity and quality of life.
Beyond workplace pressures, there are economic and lifestyle considerations at play. In recent years, a segment of the population has grown used to traveling abroad, a trend that may be harder to sustain under changing conditions. Rising costs at popular resort destinations in Turkey, Egypt, Thailand, and other places have constrained some travel budgets. Muslimov pointed out that this shift creates an opening to explore domestic destinations more deeply. He highlighted the affordability and accessibility of travel within Russia, noting that airfares to many regional locales remain lower than international equivalents and that discovering local beauty can offer substantial value for citizens seeking leisure and refreshment close to home.
In assessing the landscape of alcoholism and early-stage symptoms, health professionals stress the importance of early recognition and timely support. While the first signs can vary, professionals emphasize vigilance for changes in drinking patterns, mood, sleep, and daily functioning. A comprehensive approach combines medical evaluation with social support, counseling, and evidence-based interventions. As Russia, like many countries, considers how best to address alcohol-related harms, the focus remains on accessible care, community engagement, and practical solutions that can be scaled across regions.