Is it finally over?

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped almost every aspect of our lives—from how we work to how we connect with others. One quieter, but deeply concerning shift has been the rise in alcohol use. For many, drinking became a way to manage stress, isolation, and uncertainty. But the long-term effects are becoming hard to ignore. In the UK, we’ve seen a worrying 20% increase in deaths from alcohol-related liver disease, with serious consequences not only for individuals but for whole communities.

When drinking increases at home, families often feel the strain. Changes in behaviour, mood and routines can lead to tension and breakdown in relationships. Studies show that nearly 15% of families experienced conflict linked to alcohol during the pandemic.

Children are especially vulnerable. Living with a parent who drinks heavily can have lasting emotional and mental health effects. Sadly, these patterns can carry forward into the next generation, creating cycles of harm that are difficult to break. The charities Adfam and Kinship, that support families affected by alcohol problems are seeing an increase in family breakdown and consequences for children

Communities have also felt the impact. Alcohol-fuelled incidents—including violence and accidents—rose sharply, placing extra pressure on police, healthcare services and local agencies. Lockdown also weakened the social fabric. With fewer chances to meet, support one another, or take part in healthy community life, many people experienced greater isolation—which in turn, increased their reliance on alcohol.

The Changing Workplace

Remote work blurred the boundaries between work and home, and for some, this led to drinking during the working day. A recent survey found that 30% of employees reported drinking more during work hours than before the pandemic.

This brings new challenges for employers, who must now consider how best to support staff and rebuild a healthy workplace culture. Mental health, wellbeing and clear support systems have never been more important.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Solving this issue requires a collective, thoughtful response. It starts with raising awareness: making space for honest conversations about alcohol and mental health, without judgement. Public health campaigns, accessible support services and workplace training all play a role. There is still no UK-wide government alcohol strategy, despite overwhelming evidence of continued alcohol harm. This needs to change.

Employers can take the lead by offering confidential support, improving policies and promoting alcohol-free social alternatives. Communities can foster safe, inclusive spaces that support connection without the need for alcohol.

While we may have moved on from the worst of the pandemic, the effects of increased alcohol use will take longer to heal. A rise in alcohol-related liver disease is already being seen in hospitals, with deaths up by 20% during peak pandemic periods. Many patients are younger, and many link their condition to drinking more during lockdown.

If current trends continue, alcohol-related illness will remain one of the leading causes of preventable death in the UK. But that future isn’t fixed.

With the right support, honest dialogue and proactive action, we can turn things around—creating healthier lives, stronger workplaces, and safer communities. The choices we make now will shape the future we share.

A health awareness poster advocating for liver health during the pandemic.