Effects of economic disruptions in the economy on alcohol use and problems: Why do Blacks fare worse?

In an earlier study, we found job loss related to the 2008-2009 Recession was associated with increased alcohol problems, especially among Blacks.  In this study, we explore how job loss during economic downturns leads to increased alcohol consumption and problems, and why Blacks who lose their jobs during economic downturns might be at increased risk of alcohol problems.  We hypothesized 1) job loss would be associated with psychological distress, increased drunkenness (i.e., drinking to cope, or escapist drinking) and alcohol use disorders (AUDs); and 2) family support and racial stigma would moderate effects of job loss on distress, especially among Blacks and Hispanics.  Using data from the 2010 National Alcohol Survey (telephone survey of 1,111 Black, 964 Hispanic and 3133 White adults), we conducted simultaneous path modeling in Mplus to test mediation and moderation hypotheses. Hypotheses were partially supported.  In the overall sample, although job loss was associated with higher levels of distress, distress was not related to drunkenness. Among individuals who lost their jobs, those who reported low levels of family support reported higher levels of distress.  Racial stigma did not moderate the effects of job loss on distress. In contrast to findings in the overall sample, distress was significantly associated with increased drunkenness among Blacks, which in turn was associated with AUD.  This indirect effect was similar for Hispanics, although only marginally significant. Job loss due to downturns in the economy appears to be an important stressor experienced by Blacks and Hispanics that increases risk for AUD.