Market research regarding substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic shows alcoholic beverage sales increased by about 55% in March compared to March of last year, while sales of combustible cigarettes increased across several countries. Meanwhile, the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program indicated an increase of 42% in opioid overdoses nationally by May compared to the previous year. In this post, Rina Eiden, professor of psychology and Social Science Research Institute cofunded faculty member, discusses the complex issue of substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic with a specific emphasis on the likely negative impacts on the family unit.
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