The experience of women attending a service for alcohol use disorder during Covid-19 pandemic; a qualitative study

Objectives To examine the impact of Covid-19 on women regarding alcohol use, and experience of receiving relevant services.Methods Demographic and clinical characteristics of all women attending an alcohol use disorder community service in England over a 6-month period were compared to those of men. A subset of 10 women was interviewed using a semi-structured interview. Triangulation criteria included age, parenthood and childcare responsibilities.Results There were no demographic or clinical differences between women and men. Increased mental health difficulties, burden of motherhood and loss of social role were precipitating factors for drinking escalation during the pandemic. Known factors such as fear of stigma, fear of involvement of social services and partner’s negative influence were barriers to seeking treatment. Conversely self-recognition of alcohol problematic use or support from family motivated individuals to seeking treatment.Conclusions Despite the limitation of small sample and risk of recall bias this study indicates that a personalized and sensitive approach may help to break down stigma and fear of social services and promote engagement with services. Early recognition and support for mental health problems and improved collaboration between mental health and alcohol services might improve engagement into treatment and reduce impact on women and their families.