Alcohol consumption and related problems have increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, there will be more to learn about the long term effects that these changes will have.
Here's what we know so far.

• Alcohol use cannot protect against COVID-19. In fact, drinking excessively can negatively impact our immediate immune response when in contact with the novel coronavirus. In can also increase the risk for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and subsequent complications, which may be worsened with a COVID-19 diagnosis. Read More
• Alcohol sales across the United States have grown exponentially. Read More
• Compared to pre-pandemic times, adults in the United States are consuming 14% more alcohol with women showing 17% increase and men 19%. Read More
• For men and women, psychological distress appears related to increased alcohol consumption. But for women in particular, it seems that the experience of distress as a result of the pandemic led to increased heavy drinking. Read More