WVU in the News: COVID-19, misconceptions about alcohol could lead to increased winter drinking
A recent study conducted by Rehabs.com, a website facilitated by American Addiction Centers, says 50% of West Virginians reported increased alcohol consumption during winter months.
Rehabs.com, described as a leading provider of addiction treatment resources, conducted the survey in January. Participating were 3,000 American adults.
In addition to the findings regarding West Virginia, the survey found 83% of participants said they’re more likely to turn to alcohol when experiencing issues with mood or mental health during the winter than in the summer.
Additionally, 36% of respondents said they prefer to consume alcoholic beverages in the winter rather than in the summer.
The survey results also indicated 12% of Americans believe drinking in the winter will “warm them up,” and 1 in 10 drinkers also believe drinking alcohol can help protect them against hypothermia.
Dr. Gordon Smith, professor of epidemiology at West Virginia University School of Public Health, commented on the misconceptions surrounding alcohol’s effects on the body revealed by the survey.