Changes in alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic among a sample of cannabis users

Background: The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has infiltrated all aspects of life in the U.S, including how consumers purchase and use alcohol. Given these changes and the use of alcohol to cope with states of distress, the primary objective of this study is to examine the association between alcohol use and the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this one-group longitudinal study, we administered a self-report online survey to cannabis users in December 2019 and June 2020. This survey included the AUDIT and was amended at Wave 2 for the inclusion of COVID-10 impacts, beliefs, and behaviors. Results: Most (68.6%) of the sample reported little to no change in alcohol use. Our results showed an overall decline in AUDIT scores from Wave 1 to Wave 2 (p < .001, d = .40). However, those who reported greater amounts of change in alcohol use had statistically significant differences in AUDIT scores compared to those reporting no change. Conclusion: This study highlights the initial effects of COVID-19 on alcohol use and provides direction for research and clinical practice. The decline in consumption aligns with predictive literature and the group differences warrant investigation into changes for alcohol education through in-person or socially distant modes.