Study Shows People Drink For A Good Time

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Plenty of people tipped a few back yesterday for St. Patrick's Day, and a new survey shows more Americans chose to drink for a good time, instead of when they're having a bad day.

The Harris poll surveyed more than 1,300 legal-age drinkers. The researchers found that 86 percent drink to celebrate a special occasion, 73 percent celebrate on their birthday and 72 percent tip one back when they're having an amazing day.

On the other hand, 60 percent say they drink when they're having a terrible day, 52 percent when they're stressed and 40 percent after a breakup.

One addiction specialist said in his 30 years of experience, people turn to alcohol during tense situations.