Occupational Stress and Alcohol Addiction in the Workplace
Let’s face it alcohol can be easily accessed in many Western countries. In fact, it’s widely accepted by society and is a legal drug. For centuries, alcohol has been part of social gatherings and the workplace. However, in the last few decades, the aided use of alcohol in the workplace has increased.
Ask a business man or woman what one of the most common things at a dinner or late night meeting is and they may say cocktails, wine or beer. In fact, some countries such as Japan implore the use of alcohol before any negotiation or deal is met. Saying no can be a costly career move this is setting people up for addiction in the workplace.
Occupational Stress May Lead to Alcoholism
Although the research is still ongoing, it currently indicates that certain job environments cause more stress than others. This occupational stress is a major issue amongst workplaces around the globe and can include an increase in hours, lack of holidays, being underpaid, hostile environments and even harassment. When these do not align with the individual, they can develop a variety of physical and psychological disorders. It is these which have a direct impact on the person’s’ professional or personal life and lead up to an addiction to alcohol.
Professions at Most Risk for Alcohol Abuse and Addiction
Out of the thousands of different professions, there are some which have been proven to cause more harm to an individual’s overall wellbeing. In 2007, SAMSHA published a report that found the so called “glamour” professions such as those within the arts, media and entertainment sector rank third in the most alcohol addiction prone careers. This came as a surprise because, prior to this study, it had been widely believed that these types of jobs came with the most risk for destructive behavioral patterns. According to this study, it was the food and beverage industry leading the way for developing alcoholism. Following this sector was construction, entertainment, sports and arts, sales, repair, farming and fishing, transportation, cleaning, personal care and administration.
It’s important to note that this study took place over a two year period and all the indicated professions had one primary common factor; that being, there is typically no drug testing. Furthermore, when discussed with working professionals, those who used alcohol and/or drugs stated they were not likely to work for a company which implemented any sort of testing.
Health Care Services At Risk for Alcoholism
Although the aforementioned indicated a high risk of alcohol abuse in the workplace, there are additional sectors that are also at risk, but lie under the radar. Doctors, nurses, 911 operators, police, firefighters and ambulance personal have intense, high stress jobs which come face to face with traumatic situations on a frequent basis. To cope with this, it is not uncommon for these people to turn to alcohol or prescription medications. This group is also prone to develop PTSD, which if left undiagnosed and untreated, there is a high risk of dependency, depression and even suicide.
Signs of an Addiction to Alcohol
Some of these affected people, especially in the health care services sector, may be in denial. Being able to understand and recognize the signs of an addiction to alcohol is important. They may include:
- Lying or hiding your drinking
- Drinking to relax, feel better or cope with a situation
- Blacking out or losing memory after drinking
- Unable to quit drinking once started
- Consuming alcohol in dangerous situations
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Having relationship or financial troubles
- Consistently being able to drink more and more
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Trying to quit, but cannot
- Lowered immune system and/or frequently sick
- Dry skin, brittle nails and hair loss
- Enlarged belly and/or red nose
Even if you or a loved one does not experience any of the above, it does not necessarily mean there is not a problem. In fact, many working professionals are considered binge or closet drinkers. It is well known that these people do a very good job at hiding their addiction because in a sense, they have to.
Another benefit of moving from rehab to a sober living home is the transition into reality is slower, more steady and balanced. You’ll still have structure and security, but not as much as in the rehab. More importantly, these coupled with the support and guidance will continue to act as a safeguard. At this secondary treatment facility, you will learn to grow as a person, gather your thoughts and readjust to society and everything that comes with it.
The sober living home environment is one of the most suitable places to spend your early recovery. If you’re feeling anxious about returning home after rehab, consider this alternative option.
Further research is needed to fully understand a withdrawal from liquid ecstasy. Physical symptoms can appear in people who have ceased using the drug after a few days of consecutive use. Symptoms could include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, chest pain or tightness, muscle aches, sensitivity to sound or light, dysphoria, seizures and mental impairment. These symptoms can last between 2 days and 4 weeks. There have been people who struggle to cope with these withdrawal symptoms and require the assistance of a detoxification and rehab center. This is more frequent in heavy liquid ecstasy users.
Some liquid ecstasy users will attempt to withdrawal on their own. Because the effects can be so severe, they may use benzodiazepines or alcohol to lessen them. Self medicating any drug withdrawal without medical supervision can be extremely dangerous. It’s highly recommended to consult a doctor or rehab before going cold turkey (quitting on your own).
Getting Help at an Alcohol Rehab Before its Too Late
If you or someone you know has an addiction to alcohol and is ready to take time away from work and get the help necessary to redeem your life, your career and your relationships, consider a rehab center in Thailand.
Siam Rehab Thailand is a leading alcohol addiction facility situated in the picturesque mountains of Chiang Rai, Thailand. Boasting a small client load at any given time, certified Western trained staff, and an integrated evidence based treatment program, men and women will be able to heal the body and mind; thereby reach a point of long term recovery and sobriety.
Contact Siam Rehab today to find out how we can help you or a loved one.
Read more abuse addiction and the workplace:
https://siamrehab.com/business-executives-and-drug-abuse-at-work/
