Health Risks
Alcohol and COVID-19
It’s important to remember that excessive alcohol use can weaken your immune system, which can make you more susceptible to COVID-19 and other illnesses. Learn more about the Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines to help reduce your risk of alcohol-related harms, health risks, and injuries related to alcohol.
During COVID-19, you may be feeling stressed or struggling to adapt to changes in your routine. Learn more about how to support your mental well-being during COVID-19 on our mental health and COVID-19 page.
Alcohol is a drug that can cause mental and physical impairment even after one drink.
Short term health effects can include an increased risk of injury from:
- falls,
- motor vehicle collisions
- fights,
- family violence,
- child abuse,
- sexual assault.
Long term health effects include:
- heart disease
- high blood pressure,
- stroke,
- liver disease,
- cancers of the head and neck, liver, colon, and breast
- alcohol dependence
- anxiety,
- depression,
- suicide.
If you choose to drink you can lower your health risks by following Canada’s Low Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines.
Resources
COVID-19, Alcohol, and Cannabis Use - Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addition