Heavy Drinking by Women Rises 41%

A study released this week by the Rand Corporation shows that American adults have sharply increased their consumption of alcohol during the shutdown triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, with women increasing their heavy drinking episodes (four or more drinks within a couple of hours) by 41%.

A national survey found that the overall frequency of alcohol consumption increased by 14% among adults over age 30, compared to the same time last year. The increase was 19% among all adults aged 30 to 59, 17% among women, and 10% among non-Hispanic white adults.

Researchers say that the alcohol spike seen among women, younger adults, and non-Hispanic white individuals highlights the need for primary care providers, behavioral health providers, and family members to be aware of the risks of increased alcohol use and heavy drinking.

In addition to a range of negative physical health associations, excessive alcohol use may lead to or worsen existing mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression, which may themselves be increasing during COVID-19. (Source: Changes in Adult Alcohol Use and Consequences During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the US, by Michael S. Pollard, PhD, Joan S. Tucker, PhD, Harold D. Green Jr, PhD.) 

Addiction is a progressive disease. The trajectory from use to misuse to abuse to dependence can be subtle and swift. People may think ‘I will stop drinking after the shutdown, when all this is over.’ And yet we are now eight months into changed lifestyles for most people with no clear end in sight. This is a significant period of time in which to develop patterns and habits that are problematic. We may not think we have an issue, but suddenly find it harder than we expected to go without that cocktail or glass of wine or stop once we start. 

Maybe it is worth talking to someone about it? Freedom Institute is here to answer any questions and help you explore your relationship with alcohol. Give us a call at 212-838-0044 or email us at info@freedominstitute.org.