SPR30831 WLF SPA WhitePaper v12 - Flipbook - Page 20
Substance abuse and alcohol consumption
means that risk factors for both substance use and suicide are impacted. Research also
suggests that underemployment, poverty and marked increases in opioid abuse are factors
contributing to increased suicide rates in the United States 74.
Evidence shows that lengthy or repeated exposure to a stressful and traumatic event increases
the risk of alcohol abuse or dependence. Results from a survey assessing the psychological
impact of the 2003 SARS outbreak of 549 randomly selected hospital employees in Beijing,
An assessment of the psychological impact of the 2003 SARS outbreak of 549
randomly selected hospital employees in Beijing, revealed symptoms of alcohol
abuse and dependence in individuals that were quarantined or worked in
high-risk areas.
China, revealed symptoms of alcohol abuse and dependence three years post outbreak in
individuals that were quarantined or worked in high-risk areas. The study also found a significant
association between PTSD symptoms and alcohol abuse/dependence. The findings suggest
that the associated mental health consequences of experiencing the SARS epidemic can result
in long-term alcohol abuse and dependence 75.
Wesley Mission’s Specialist Homelessness Services highlighted that being confined to a small
space and unable to indulge in harmful drug and alcohol behaviours, may perpetuate
detoxification and withdrawal symptoms. Such symptoms can be life-threatening and involve
29.63% of Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Networks’ survey respondents
identified that the pandemic has negatively impacted alcohol and drug abuse in
their communities.
considerable fear for risk of suicide 76. This is supported by research indicating that risk of
suicidal ideation is increased in persons experiencing emotional distress from opioid
withdrawal 77.
Referencing Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Networks’ survey 78, findings on the impact of
COVID-19 on alcohol and drug abuse in communities indicate that a majority, 29.63 per cent,
believe this issue has negatively impacted their communities. An already existing problem in
many communities, some network members have noticed an increase in substance use and
alcohol consumption due to COVID-19.
Reducing distress in the community following the COVID-19 pandemic
June 2020
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