Coping style as a risk factor for future alcohol use disorder: A 16-year longitudinal study in a Canadian military sample

Background Coping strategies used in response to stress have the potential to influence the development of mental health disorders, including alcohol use disorders. The current study investigated whether coping strategies placed an individual at greater likelihood for developing a future alcohol use disorder. Methods This study used data from the Canadian Armed Forces Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey; a nationally representative 16-year follow-up survey, with initial data collected in the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey – Canadian Forces Supplement. The total sample from the two datasets included 2,941 individuals who were Regular Force members in 2002. Coping styles included problem-focused, avoidant, and self-medication. Adjusted logistic regression analyses examined relationships between coping style (in 2002) and alcohol use disorders (developed between 2002-2018). Results Self-medication coping in 2002 was associated with any alcohol disorder since last interview (i.e., 2002-2018) (AOR 1.26; 95% CI, 1.02-1.57) and during the past year (adjusted odds ratios [AOR 1.26; 95% CI, 1.08-1.47]), as well as past-year binge drinking (AOR 1.19; 95% CI, 1.09-1.29). Problem-focused coping was protective against past-year alcohol abuse (AOR 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71-1.00) and any alcohol use disorder (AOR 0.87; 95% CI 0.76-1.00). Conclusion Coping styles were strongly associated with future alcohol use disorders. Notably, results show the risk extended over a 16-year period. Findings suggest the use of self-medicating coping strategies places an individual at increased risk of developing alcohol use disorders, while problem-focused coping may decrease future risk of alcohol use disorders.