Since the early days of the pandemic, many have struggled to get by. Adults have been forced to work from home while balancing kids' remote learning. Others have been on the front lines risking their lives every day—with more than half a million deaths occurring nationwide. However, everything started to look up at the beginning of summer: cities, bars, and restaurants began reopening. It felt as if that small freedom was given back to us. Initially going into lockdown, alcohol sales were at staggering numbers. It seemed as though it was just a phase. But in August of 2021, overconsumption of alcohol has continued to increase—something none of us thought we would have to deal with.

In 2020, 750,000 cancer cases were linked to alcohol consumption, showing a significant increase from previous years. When alcohol acts as an irritant in the body (for example, in the lining of the mouth, throat, or stomach), the body tries to heal itself. Unfortunately, this can result in abnormalities, thus causing cancer. Men are 75% more likely to develop cancer in their esophagus or liver, while women are prone to breast cancer. According to the 2019 U.S. data, women in their late teens to early twenties are drinking as much (or even more than men)—and they too are suffering the consequences.

It’s no secret that those who drink to cope are more likely to abuse alcohol down the road. Since the pandemic began, the effort to try and cope with alcohol has been more popular among parents of young children as they try to juggle even more duties than before. Research suggests that although both groups use alcohol as a coping strategy, women are more likely to use it as a coping mechanism than men are. One study looked at the effect that alcohol had on college students early in the pandemic and found an increase in alcohol use among those who reported higher stress and anxiety levels. In addition, several studies found that women were more likely to report drinking higher alcohol levels during the pandemic, especially if they experienced increased stress.

Using alcohol as a coping mechanism is known to help with daily stressors, trauma, and social anxiety. However, it is now turning into a long-term effect of COVID. Despite the calming properties over time, alcohol increases the effects of depression and anxiety. Researchers from NYU surveyed residents from all 50 states from March to April of last year. Out of the 5,850 respondents, 29% of them have increased drinking since the beginning of the pandemic. Those with depression are 64% and with anxiety, 41%, more likely to increase their amount of drinking. 

While it’s perfectly normal (and even healthy) to moderately drink, it’s important to remember not to use alcohol as a coping strategy. It may help us fall asleep or relax our nerves, but drinking is a temporary fix. We don't want to find ourselves sneaking in a shot before every work. Also, consider the alcohol restrictions and how easily it is to have alcohol delivered without even having to leave the couch. It has become easier to have groceries delivered right to our home, as are freshly made cocktails from restaurants and bars. This newfound accessibility can be just as addictive (or dangerous) as our Amazon deliveries that start to pile up outside our house.

Author :  Jennifer Dutton, Blog Writer, DrinkLyte Co. "Helping Grow CPG Brands Beyond Their Potential"