When times get hard, people drink more, right?
Well, no. The proportion of adults consuming alcohol has actually declined during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a survey commissioned by Responsibility.org. Some 63% of respondents said they are drank in 2021, down from 79% in 2020.
Additionally, most American adults (87%) are confident that they drink responsibly, with the proportion of individuals surveyed saying they felt extremely confident increasing significantly, from 45% to 57%, over the past eight months.
“Americans are still struggling with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in multiple ways, but we’re encouraged by this study’s findings,” said Chris Swonger, president/CEO, Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS) and Responsibility.org. “Adults largely remain confident in their ability to consume alcohol responsibly, even when under unprecedented levels of stress.”
The data also underscore how adults have made their health a priority over the past year, with 42% of participants reporting they have learned the importance of self-care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whether in efforts to practice self-care or institute positive changes, 26% of individuals surveyed reported drinking less for health-related reasons, while 35% of individuals who have stopped drinking all together since the beginning of the pandemic cite the same reason.
Additionally, COVID-19 related local regulations and closures have reduced adult consumption. Thirty-four percent of adults who report drinking less also cited not being able to go out as their reason for drinking less, while 23% cited bar and restaurant closures as the reason. COVID-19 related closures and restrictions have changed how, where, and when people are drinking.
This shift re-emphasizes the importance of responsible consumption and robust alcohol education, Responsibility.org said. With families spending most of their time at home, it is increasingly important for parents to discuss the dangers of over-consumption or underage drinking. The survey found that 54% of parents feel the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic makes it more important for them to talk to their kids about the dangers of underage drinking.
“With Americans more likely to drink from the comfort of their own home, alcohol education is paramount. Adults who choose to drink should consume responsibly and know their limits, and stick to them,” Swonger continued. “It is also critical that parents maintain an open dialogue with their children about healthy choices, as well as the dangers associated with underage drinking and overconsumption.”