While alcohol consumption is a fun way to unwind and relax for some people, it can also lead to severe consequences if abused. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted people’s lives, and many people turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. Studies have shown that there has been an increase in alcohol consumption since the pandemic began in 2020.

This increase has been attributed to various factors, including increased stress and anxiety, changes in social patterns, and the closure of bars and other social venues. In this article, we will shed light on the complexity of the relationship between the pandemic and alcohol use and raise awareness about the importance of addressing this issue to protect public health.

Alcohol Consumption Trend in the UK Before the COVID-19 Pandemic

The history of alcohol consumption in the United Kingdom has seen both highs and lows. Historically, alcohol consumption has been an integral part of British culture and society, dating back to ancient times. However, over the centuries, there have been periods of increased concern about excessive alcohol consumption in the UK and efforts to curb it.

Firstly, in the 19th century, the temperance movement, which aimed to reduce alcohol consumption, gained momentum in the UK. This led to the passing of several laws aimed at restricting the sale and consumption of alcohol, including the 1872 Licensing Act, which reduced the number of hours that pubs could be open.

Since then, the drinking trend in the UK has remained steady over the years, reaching a small peak in the mid-2000s, with the average consumption being about 18 units weekly. However, in 2019, 40% of men and 20% of women aged between 55 and 64 were drinking at a level considered to cause an ‘increased risk’ to health.

Usually, according to the Chief medical officer’s recommendation, the recommended drinking unit is 14 units per week spread over three days or more. But this did not account for a global catastrophe such as the pandemic, which threw many people into turmoil. The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harms, which have become a concern.

Are More People Drinking Since the Pandemic?

Now to the real question. Are there more people drinking since the pandemic? Yes, there are. Since the pandemic, alcohol consumption has increased. This is not surprising, as people often turn to alcohol in times of stress and turmoil. Studies have shown that there has been an increase in alcohol consumption in the United Kingdom since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

A study in particular that was conducted by the Policy Institute at King’s College London found that one-third of people in England (29%) reported drinking more alcohol during the lockdown period. Another report by GOV UK found that the sales of duty-paid wine and spirits increased in 2020 and 2021, compared to 2019 to 2020–an increase of +8.9% and +7.3%, respectively.

This has not gone without consequences. Alcohol-induced deaths and accidents skyrocketed as a result of the increase in consumption. According to data from the Office for National Statistics, there were 8,974 alcohol-related deaths in 2020 in the UK. It was an 18.6% increase compared with 2019 (7,565 deaths; 11.8 per 100,000 people) and the highest yearly increase since the data time series began in 2001.

Overall, the pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s lives and their drinking habits. However, it’s still unclear if the increase in alcohol consumption is a long-term trend or a temporary reaction to the pandemic stressors.

Factors That Led to an Increase in Drinking Since the Pandemic

  1. Stress and anxiety: The pandemic has brought uncertainty and stress, and many people have turned to alcohol to cope with these emotions.
  2. Changes in social patterns: The closure of bars, restaurants, and other social venues has led to a decrease in social interactions, and many people have turned to alcohol as a way to fill this gap.
  3. Boredom and isolation: The lockdowns and social distancing measures have increased feelings of boredom and isolation, which may also contribute to increased alcohol consumption.
  4. Financial strain: The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has led to financial strain for many people, which may lead them to use alcohol to cope with stress and anxiety.
  5. Lack of alternatives: With many leisure and entertainment venues closed, people may have fewer alternatives for how to spend their time, leading them to turn to alcohol.

How To Mitigate the Problem

As you might imagine, this problem could have serious health consequences for individuals turning to alcohol while already having poor diets or high-stress levels from dealing with their jobs or families during uncertain times like these.

While these numbers are certainly alarming, the good news is that there are several ways to tackle the problem. Some helpful strategies include;

  1. Increase access to support and treatment: This can include expanding access to addiction treatment services, counselling, and support groups. In severe cases of AUD, residential treatment may be appropriate.
  2. Implement policies to reduce alcohol harm: This can include increasing taxes on alcohol, implementing stricter regulations on advertising and promotions, and setting limits on the density of outlets selling alcohol.
  3. Promote alternative coping mechanisms: Encourage people to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or other forms of self-care.
  4. Increase public awareness and education: Raise awareness about the negative consequences of excessive alcohol consumption and the importance of responsible drinking.
  5. Support mental health: The pandemic has affected mental health in many ways, providing mental health support and addressing the underlying issues that may lead to excessive drinking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted alcohol use, with many studies reporting an increase in consumption due to stress, anxiety, and isolation–all linked to the pandemic. However, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a host of adverse health effects and exacerbate the already challenging situation caused by the pandemic. So, it is crucial to maintain healthy coping mechanisms and seek support to avoid turning to alcohol as a crutch. Additionally, it is essential to be aware of the increased risk of alcohol-related harm during this time and take steps to reduce it.

Staff Reporter
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