1-in-10 North Carolinians turn to alcohol when making big financial decisions, finds study.

NORTH CAROLINA (WWAY) — A recent survey conducted by CardRates.com revealed that 12% (over 1 in 10) of North Carolinians admit to turning to alcohol when faced with major financial decisions. This compares to a national average of 21%.

Over half (51%) of respondents noted that reducing stress levels associated with their financial situations was the primary reason for drinking. Interestingly, 25% admitted that they would drink alcohol to toast success in recent financial decisions they had made.

Additionally, 12.5% reported drinking specifically to help them make a financial decision, while 9% drank as an avoidance technique before making a decision. Unsurprisingly, 41% of respondents regretted making some financial decisions while inebriated.

Finally, almost two-thirds of North Carolinians acknowledged that drinking alcohol impairs their ability to make sound financial decisions, much like it affects their ability to do other activities such as driving. However, a concerning 18% of respondents said they believed that alcohol improved their decision-making abilities.