The impact of COVID-19 on substance use and substance use treatment
COVID-19 is causing a global, unprecedented disruption in the daily lives of millions. Rates of unemployment increased dramatically in 2020, and many countries have identified increases in the overall mortality rate as well as increases in drug overdose deaths during the pandemic. However, it appears that adverse substance related outcomes (i.e., death, overdose, development of a substance use disorder or increased binge drinking) have been concentrated among those who have been impacted by the social and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. To explore this issue in greater depth, this virtual special issue of The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse includes a collection of studies that investigate the effects of COVID-19 on substance use, substance use disorders, and receipt of treatment on international communities.
Edited by
Jennifer M. Reingle Gonzalez(The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute and the University of Texas School of Public Health: Epidemiology)