New data released today by the Global Drugs Survey has found that Australians reported getting drunk 27 times during 2020, compared with the global average of 14.6.
Data gathered from over 32,000 people across 22 countries shows that Australian’s top the list in heavy drinking, with Denmark, Finland, and the US following behind.
Aussies actually consumed alcohol on considerably fewer days than the top ranking countries for consumption, 106 day out of the year, compared to the leading French 132 days, suggesting that while we drink less frequently, we go harder when we do.
Other data gathered through the GDS has also found that one in four of those who used psychedelics in the past 12 months reported microdosing, with three-quarters saying they experienced no side effects from the practice.
Around half of people taking prescribed medications for mental health conditions who also microdosed said that they reduced or stopped their medication entirely as a result.
Globally, the use rates of most illegal drugs decreased in the last 12 months, during the pandemic and associated restrictions.
Even among those who continued to use illegal drugs during the pandemic, the rates of seeking emergency medical treatment fell.
‘While it may indicate that home-based use was less likely to result in harm, it may also be that there were less people around, like staff, to call for help’, said Dr Monica Barratt.
’Using while home alone is a risk factor for overdose and may have contributed to elevated rates for some drug types’.
The Global Drug Survey has recently launched their 2022 survey and is currently collecting responses from people, including those who only drink alcohol or don’t consume any drugs or alcohol. You can add your information here and the data will be used to inform drug policy debate and create new harm reduction techniques.