No Surprise, Women Are Drinking More Now — When Should We Reel It In?

In early April 2020, as I was starting to accept that COVID-19 was going to be a significant part of our lives, I received an unexpected gift. A close friend left some bottles of wine at my doorstep with a note that read: “You’re going to need this.” Her humor underscored a troubling trend that was beginning to surface during the pandemic: the increase in alcohol consumption.

A study from a nonprofit research organization revealed that drinking rates surged at the onset of the pandemic, and the trend continued to escalate as time went on. The most alarming increase was seen among mothers with children under five, where alcohol intake surged by a staggering 323%.

According to Dr. Mario Thompson, a health economist involved in the research, “Women are more likely to turn to alcohol as a way to manage stress, anxiety, and depression—all of which have intensified during the pandemic.” This trend of increased drinking among women has been evident for the past two decades, with the pandemic amplifying the issue.

The Rise of Gray Drinking

Dr. Thompson also highlighted another worrying trend termed “gray drinking,” which refers to the blurred lines between moderate drinking and alcohol misuse. During the pandemic, both men and women have reported a rise in this behavior.

“Gray drinking might start with a single drink in the evening, but for many, it has evolved into frequent drinking throughout the day,” Dr. Thompson explains. This pattern can be particularly insidious among women, who often drink in secret and may develop mood disorders as a result.

Gray drinking can lead to Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a condition defined by the DSM-5. To be diagnosed, individuals need to exhibit at least three of the eleven symptoms, which include cravings, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and continued alcohol use despite negative consequences.

When to Seek Change

It’s easy to slip from one glass of wine into two or three, making it challenging to recognize when drinking becomes excessive. Dr. Thompson provides some guidelines: for women, consuming more than seven standard drinks over three to five days may indicate a problem. For men, the threshold is 14 drinks per week.

A practical tip? Check your recycling bin. If you find yourself counting more than a couple of empty bottles weekly, it might be time to reassess your drinking habits.

Health Risks of Alcohol Abuse

The implications of excessive drinking extend far beyond hangovers. Dr. Thompson notes that over 100 health issues are linked to AUD, including various types of cancer. “Excessive drinking accounts for up to 25% of all cancers,” he says. Other health risks include heart disease, high blood pressure, and damage to vital organs like the liver and kidneys.

As stress levels rise, especially with ongoing public health concerns, it’s crucial to be mindful of alcohol consumption. “We are facing a secondary pandemic of alcohol misuse and mental health issues,” warns Dr. Thompson. The full extent of this situation may take years to understand, but signs may become clearer as we return to our routines.

Fortunately, there are support systems and treatment options available, and recovery is entirely achievable.

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In summary, the rise in alcohol consumption among women, particularly during the pandemic, highlights a concerning trend that warrants attention. With increased stress and isolation, many are turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism. Understanding the risks and recognizing when to cut back can lead to healthier choices and improved well-being.