The epidemic has led to new habits of increased drinking.
An Alcohol and Drug Foundation survey of more than a thousand people has found one in eight Australians have been drinking every day since the coronavirus outbreak began – much more than usual.
One in 10 people reported consuming more than 10 standard drinks per week. Nearly one in five people said they wished they’d drunk less during the Covid-19 lockdown, with half hoping to cut down in the future.
The release of the survey coincided with the launch of a campaign by the foundation called “Break the Habit”.
It encourages people to consider their recent drinking patterns, help them recognise problem signs and how to turn them around.
The campaign will also highlight that it takes just 66 days on average to form a habit, about the same period many Australians have spent in lockdown.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation chief executive, Dr Erin Lalor, said it was unsurprising people had looked for different ways to cope during the epidemic.
“(It has) been incredibly hard for everyone, particularly for those who have lost work, social connectedness and… lost loved ones. We’ve all been trying our best under challenging, never-before-seen circumstances.”
She encouraged people to reach out for practical support.
“Even small steps such as introducing alcohol-free days into your week, or having one less drink a day, can have a powerful impact.”
‘It takes just 66 days on average to form a habit, about the same period many Australians have spent in lockdown.’