According to a recent study, pandemic-induced increases in alcohol intake have persisted, highlighting long-term health hazards.
Experts warn of growing anxiety, sadness, and alcohol-related disorders, demanding awareness and accessible mental health help
The trend disturbingly persisted long after the COVID-19 pandemic-induced increases in alcohol use, revealed a report presented in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Researchers in the US based on data from more than 20,000 persons who participated in the National Health Interview Survey from 2018 to 2022.
According to the study, increased alcohol use from 2020 has persisted, thus causing serious public health issues.
Stress, anxiety, and social isolation all rose during the pandemic, and alcohol proved a temporary salve for many. “Whereas alcohol may temporarily relieve anxiety, it increases anxiety over the long term and can cause depression,” warns Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS News’s chief medical correspondent.
The physical health implications are at least as grim: alcohol has been linked to complications that involve the liver, heart, pancreas, and brain.
The study defines heavy drinking as four or more drinks per day for women and five or more for men, putting many at risk of serious health outcomes. Some experts believe that increased social acceptance and targeted marketing may also contribute to this trend among women.
Dr. Divya Ayyala of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital notes that hospitals are seeing an increase in alcohol-related health issues, particularly among women, who have faced unique pandemic pressures.
Experts hope these findings drive awareness and support for those struggling with alcohol dependency amidst persistent pandemic aftershocks.
