Lockdown drinking could have lasting impact, charity warns

By Liz Wells in Industry News 17th August 2020

Lockdown and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic could have a lasting impact on drinking levels, new research reveals.

The study, from independent alcohol education charity Drinkaware, shows that 38% of people on furlough and 33% of parents with at least one child under 18 are drinking more alcohol since the start of lockdown.

This is significantly higher than the national average where, overall, 22% of people in the UK – around 11.7 million – are drinking more since the lockdown began.

The study, conducted by Opinium on behalf of Drinkaware, highlights that 29% of young adults aged 18 to 34 are drinking at higher levels than when lockdown began.

Drinkaware is calling on the government to raise alcohol consumption higher up its harm reduction agenda.

Drinkaware chief executive, Elaine Hindal, said: “At a time when adopting a healthy lifestyle has never been more important, our latest research clearly shows certain groups of people are displaying worrying new drinking patterns during this very challenging time.

“We’re concerned that, for a significant number of people, lockdown levels of drinking may become ingrained and hard to break. Drinking more, whether out of boredom or anxiety, can lead to devastating health consequences, both mental and physical, as well as an increased tolerance for alcohol, which can lead to alcohol dependence.”

In addition, the data reveals that those who are drinking more are also more likely than the national average to display worrying drinking habits – drinking on more days than usual, having the first alcoholic drink earlier in the day, drinking alone, finding it difficult to stop at one drink or drinking to cope with the day – which could suggest possible alcohol dependence and have long-term implications for health.

Hindal added: “It is crucial that alcohol is considered as a factor when the government is looking at tackling obesity. Alcohol consumption should also be looked at as a critical factor within mental health strategies, including for those furloughed by their employers and younger adults who may feel uncertain about the future, and for parents who are juggling work and family life.”