Following our first post on alcohol and COVID-19 related guidance, news and support, the below sets out key subsequent releases.
Alcohol Change UK have released findings from a survey of over 2,000 people on the effect of Coronavirus on consumption, as reported in the Guardian. More than one in three people said they had either stopped drinking or reduced how often they drink since the lockdown. Six per cent have stopped drinking entirely. Around one in five drinkers (21%) said they have been drinking more frequently since the lockdown.
Almost half of drinkers said they were drinking about the same amount on a typical drinking day, but 15% said they have been drinking more per session. However, falls seems to be driven by lower risk drinkers, whilst increases seem to be driven by those already drinking at risky or harmful levels. See here for a Twitter summary thread and separate findings from a YouGov survey here.
New guidance and resources:
The World Health Organization have released a factsheet: Alcohol and COVID-19: what you need to know [pdf].
Public Health England have released new guidance for treatment services and commissioners: COVID-19: guidance for commissioners and providers of services for people who use drugs or alcohol.
An NHS Clinical guide for the management of people with alcohol dependence during the coronavirus pandemic is available here [pdf].
The Royal College of Psychiatrists have released practical guidance and information for people with alcohol use disorders and their carers during the pandemic.
News and comment
- Will COVID-19 change our drinking habits long term? Australia's Dr Sarah Callinan and Dr Michael Livingston ask.
- Global drinks makers race to keep party spirit going - the FT explores (£)
- Coronavirus is no time for sobriety – a drink or two can make this crisis bearable, Chris Owen responds
- Is alcohol really “essential” during covid-19? BMJ Opinion
- Cheers Covid-19: Will we consume more alcohol during this crisis? The Mental Elf
- How coronavirus is affecting the way we drink - The Independent
- More here in SHAAP's regular media monitor.
Also...
Researchers at Portsmouth University are conducting an anonymous study into the effects of social isolation on drinking habits.
Previously outlined guidance, advice & support:
SHAAP (Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems) released recommendations for services supporting people with alcohol-related problems. Download 'Coronavirus (COVID-19) and People with Alcohol-related Problems: Recommendations for Services' [pdf].
A briefing on Alcohol and domestic abuse in the context of Covid-19 restrictions [pdf] has been produced by the Substance Use and Associated Behaviours Research Centre (SUAB) at Manchester Met University.
A regularly updated page from the SSA which links to information about COVID-19 (coronavirus) including national guidance, information for treatment services, harm reduction advice for people who use drugs, online courses and news and opinion.
Alcohol Change UK have a Corona virus information and advice hub.
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