MOST AMERICANS DRINK RESPONSIBLY UNDER STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS
Source: Responsibility.org
May 12, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has not increased drinking for most Americans adults. More than 6 in 10 Americans are drinking about the same or less alcohol (beer, wine, cocktails, spirits) since stay-at-home orders were implemented.
Responsibility.org commissioned the survey to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting American adults’ drinking habits. The results released today (Tuesday) show that 35% of Americans are drinking about the same despite stay-at-home orders and 28% are drinking less (including 11% who have stopped drinking entirely). Not being able to go out and bars and restaurants being closed are the top two reasons for drinking less (38% and 33%, respectively).
Most Americans (86%) are confident they drink responsibly, with close to half (45%) reporting extreme confidence (rating of “10” on a 0-10 scale).
COVID-19 has not increased drinking during working hours for 84% of Americans. 33% never drink during working hours, 21% are drinking less or have stopped drinking, and 30% are drinking the same amount.
Nearly all Americans (94%) living with children say it is important to talk to children about the dangers of underage drinking. About half of those living with children (48%) think it is even more important to talk about underage drinking now than before the pandemic.
The number of Americans who reported drinking any alcohol in the last 30 days increased from 71% to 79% compared to the same time last year.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has upended many Americans’ lives and habits, but this survey shows most Americans are choosing to drink responsibly despite the stress of these unprecedented times. Adults who choose to drink should always do so responsibly, never drive drunk or impaired, and it is especially important for parents to model responsible decision-making in front of children,” said Chris Swonger, president and CEO, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and Responsibility.org.