Alcohol Consumption in COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Alcohol Education

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2020

Publication Title

Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education

Volume

64

Issue

2

First page number:

8

Last page number:

19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all spheres of life worldwide. Besides health, the social and economic consequences of COVID-19 altered patterns of alcohol consumption warrants further elucidation. This commentary addresses the implications of COVID-19 on alcohol use and alcohol education. Alcohol drinking is a modifiable risk factor that increases the susceptibility and adverse consequences in COVID-19 patients. There is a bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and alcohol-related problems. Alcohol use, especially heavy drinking, lowers the body 's immunity to fight infections. One of the effects of COVID-19 has been on the enforcement of lockdowns as part of community-wide quarantine. There are differing reports about the impact of lockdowns on alcohol use. In the short term, generally decreased use and the manifestation of withdrawal symptoms in those suffering from alcohol use disorder have been noted. In the long term, due to distress and negative psychological sequelae associated with isolation, increased use is reported. Also, the myth of the preventive role of consuming alcohol in COVID-19 has resulted in adverse consequences including deaths in many parts of the world. This commentary advocates for the implementation of theory-based educational programs at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels to reduce alcohol use in the COVID-19 era.

Keywords

COVID-19; Alcohol; Alcohol use disorder; Health behavior; Health education

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Public Health | Public Health Education and Promotion

Language

English


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