4. Earthquake Disaster and Alcohol-Related Problems

Alcohol-related problems caused by increased drinking among disaster victims due to a sense of loss and a lack of a place to go became an issue after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake drew attention to the problem. In the Great East Japan Earthquake, despite the early efforts of various support organizations, the reality is that the amount of alcohol consumption increased, and problems related to alcohol consumption occurred in Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima, which were severely affected by the disaster. In this study, we conducted interviews with supporters and members of self-help groups and researched materials in order to obtain knowledge that can be applied to the field from the perspective of dealing with alcohol-related problems and the practices and experiences of various organizations. As a result, many supporters realized changes in local responses to alcohol-related problems because of various efforts. However, it was suggested that the welfare issues of the community itself and the fragmentation of the relationships necessary for the support committee due to the impact of COVID-19 are issues for the future.