America in a Pandemic: Are we Drinking Too Much?

Dealing with COVID has been a nightmare for everyone in their own way. Between the economic chaos, unemployment hardships, and reconstructing homes into a classroom/office, we’ve all had to adjust in major ways. Which also meant we felt like we earned/needed a drink wayyyy more than we did pre-pandemic. 

By Mid-May 2020, Liquor Sales Skyrocketed 1,244%

Although many brick and mortar businesses have been forced to close, liquor stores remained open. In the beginning, people questioned liquor stores’ “essential business” qualification, but within a week, those doubts were long gone. The New York Daily News reported that when the country was first placed into lockdown, between March 22nd and March 29th, liquor sales increased by 204%, wine by 200% and beer, 159%. By mid-May, liquor sales skyrocketed by 1,244%. Having alcohol available to us during our lockdown ended up paying off and proved to be very effective.

Alcohol’s Role in 2020

During the pandemic, we haven’t been given much of an opportunity to relax (without worry). Instead, people are increasing their alcohol intake for the only reasons that we do have. A study conducted by The Recovery Village discovered that 55% of respondents had an increase in alcohol take, while 18% had a significant increase in alcohol take. When questioned about the reason(s) they were drinking, 53% were trying to cope with stress, 32%, to manage their anxiety and/or depression and 39% were simply just trying to pass the time, as a result of boredom.

And to make it even easier to drink, several companies started delivering alcohol through delivery apps. 

The Effects of Alcohol Consumption in 2020

Although drinking helped take the edge off and allowed some businesses to thrive, pandemic-stress has taken a toll on both men and women of all ages in many scenarios. While men have been experiencing difficulties in the pandemic, women seem to be struggling with the effects at a slightly higher rate. 

“Researchers said heavy drinking rose 41 percent among women, noting that 1 of every 5 women in their survey had heavily consumed alcohol at least 1 additional day per month compared with the previous year” - Healthline

Finding Balance in 2021

Even though Americans definitely drank more in 2020 than usual, it’s not likely we’ll completely stop drinking once the pandemic is over (whatever that means). But the important thing is to find balance between having a drink (for the right reasons), while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

Be safe, be healthy, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline is 24/7, 365 days a year. 1-800-662-4357

Drinklyte aids in safely rehydrating the body and does not promote unhealthy consumption of alcohol. We aim to help consumers stay healthy, and hangover-free so they can enjoy a drink tonight, and still “do more tomorrow.”