Rising Alcohol Consumption during the Pandemic

by Sam Walton Sr. Business Analyst

Online partying, and alcohol delivery have been a huge hit during the pandemic. While many industries are struggling due people staying indoors, alcohol consumption has skyrocketed as an increasing number of people are turning to alcohol to relieve stress, anxiety, and loneliness.

This rise in alcohol consumption can quickly turn to a daily drinking habit, which is a slippery slope to alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder affects millions of adults in the United States.Alcohol is the third leading cause of death in the United States. This includes the different effects alcohol use disorder can have, for example, accidents, accidental drowning, cancer, liver failure, and heart disease.

COVID drinking can act as a trigger for people who are in recovery for an alcohol use disorder or other substance use disorder. During the pandemic, recovering individuals may not have been access to their support groups and treatment teams, which often makes them feel isolated. The combination of isolation, anxiety, and easy access to alcohol can act as the perfect ingredients for relapse.

Potential Effects of COVID Drinking

Alcohol can weaken the immune system, leaving people more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections, especially pneumonia. Alcohol also increases inflammation and can contribute to ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome). Both ARDS and pneumonia are seen in COVID-19 patients since the disease mainly affects the lungs and causes secondary infections and inflammation.

While the virus may die off, and the society may wake up to a “new normal”, the effects of heavy alcohol consumption may last for a long time. The lingering effects of the pandemic – depression, anxiety, and fear – may last much longer. Many people may continue to turn to alcohol to cope with negative emotions. Some people may feel the need to drink simply because they are bored and lonely.

Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

Most people with alcohol use disorder are unable to admit the problem. They may be in denial and make excuses for their drinking habit. Here are the common signs associated with alcohol use disorder –

Trying to stop drinking but couldn’t last more than a couple of days
Drinking causing trouble at home or job
The need to have a drink in the morning to curb shakiness
‘Blackouts’– you have been drinking for a period of time, and you cannot recall any events.
Drinking when you are stressed out, disappointed, or are in a fight with someone
Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol, such as a racing heart, nausea, vomiting, tremors, or seizures.
Driving under the influence
Hiding drinking habits from friends or family
Your loved ones or coworkers have expressed concern about your drinking
Eagerly waiting to have the first drink of the day

Disappointment or discomfort if alcohol is not available in a social setting

Whether your alcohol disorder started during the pandemic or if it has been there from before the virus outbreak, it is important to recognize the above signs and seek help.Seeking professional treatment for alcohol use disorder can help you prevent complications of alcohol withdrawal as well as help you cultivate a healthy lifestyle.

If you are looking for one of the most trusted drug detox centers or drug and alcohol rehabs in San Diego, call Pacific Bay Recovery at 858-263-9700 right away and begin the path towards healing and taking charge of your life again.