Pandemic Drinking Habits Persist Among Canadians, Survey Finds

Canadians are continuing to drink more alcohol than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new research from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). While overall alcohol consumption has declined over the long term, the study found that adults who do drink are consuming higher quantities, a trend that began during the pandemic and has not significantly reversed.

The CAMH Monitor eReport surveyed more than 3,000 adults in Ontario and found that 76 per cent of people of legal drinking age consumed alcohol in the past year. Among them, 22 per cent reported drinking at least once a month, while daily and weekly drinking levels remain elevated compared to 2019.

Daily alcohol consumption rose by three per cent in 2025 compared with pre-pandemic levels, while binge drinking — defined as consuming five or more drinks on one occasion at least once a week — increased by 3.6 per cent. Experts say lockdowns, stress and disrupted social routines during the pandemic have had lasting effects on drinking behaviours.

The survey also revealed a gender gap. Men were significantly more likely to drink daily and engage in binge drinking than women. Nearly 10 per cent of men reported drinking every day, compared with about six per cent of women, while weekly binge drinking among men was more than double that of women.

Health experts warn that increased alcohol consumption carries serious physical and mental health risks. These include higher chances of liver disease, cancer, heart problems, depression and anxiety. Addiction specialists also expressed concern about the growing availability of alcohol, including stronger pre-mixed drinks and expanded sales in grocery stores.

Canada’s updated low-risk drinking guidelines recommend no more than one or two standard drinks per week to avoid long-term health risks. However, experts caution that many alcoholic beverages sold today exceed standard alcohol levels, making it easier for consumers to drink more than intended.