Nationally, alcohol sales have increased by 54 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the September 2020 issue of JAMA, a national study found that people 18 and older are more likely to drink alcohol. Another 2020 study reported that people under stress related to COVID-19 drank more alcohol and consumed it more frequently.
While alcohol consumption has increased due to the pandemic, it is not a new concern. Alcohol use disorders are the most common substance use disorders worldwide.
