Adverse Effects of Alcohol and Work

The National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence describes alcoholism as being characterized by “impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with the drug alcohol, use of alcohol despite adverse consequences, and distortion in thinking, most notably denial.”

It’s true that many people suffering from alcohol dependence often overestimate their ability to function with their condition, and this can cause many problems in all areas of their lives, including their performance at work.

The effects of alcohol abuse on places of work in the U.S. is estimated to cost somewhere between $33 billion and $68 billion each year, primarily due to absenteeism, lost productivity (presenteeism), accidents, medical costs and disability. However, the effects of alcoholism on the quality of life for the alcoholic and their loved ones is beyond monetary measure and can cause enormous stress and suffering.

Common Workplace Problems

Because alcohol abuse affects the behavior and judgement of a person, there are many ways in which this problem can manifest in the workplace. These can include:

Absenteeism

People suffering with alcohol dependence are 4 to 8 times more likely to take time off work than the average employee. It has also been found that family members and spouses of alcoholics are more likely to be absent from work as well.

Accident and Injury

Because many alcoholics fail to judge accurately the effects of alcohol on their abilities, this can lead to many accidents in the workplace. Not only does this increase the risk of injury to the person under the influence of alcohol, but also to their work colleagues.

Relationship Problems with Co-Workers

Many alcohol related behaviors can have a negative effect on co-workers. An alcoholic may become aggressive, argumentative, or uncooperative, leading to strained relationships within the workplace and possible isolation of the alcoholic. Alcohol abuse can cause noticeable mood swings, with some people becoming very loud or behaving or speaking in an inappropriate way. Alternatively, it may manifest as depression, lack of productivity or sleeping on the job.

What Can You Do?

Due to the increased risk of accidents and problems with co-workers, it is important not to ignore an employee who is struggling with alcohol dependence. If you are dealing with this condition yourself, it’s important to be honest about your difficulties and ask for help. Employers often have a Human Resources team, or access to programs such as the Employee Assistance Program, which is designed to help support employees who are going through a difficult time.

Because our treatment center relies on evidence based practices, our Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program shares many common methods with other successful rehab programs.  The foundations of our treatment program for substance abuse also rely on the principles of harm reduction, motivational interviewing, stages of change and cognitive behavioral therapy to promote recovery from alcohol abuse and drug treatment.  In fact, our Intensive Outpatient Program in Memphis, TN that has been proven to be effective in the treatment of alcohol abuse and drug treatment in peer reviewed treatment outcome studies.   Our treatment center  provides services to those who need more treatment than one hour a week, but less than 24 hour care, by providing three hours of treatment per day, three to five days per week, in an intensive outpatient setting.  If you or a loved one is showing signs of alcohol abuse or needs drug treatment rehab, they should be assessed by a trained mental health professional who can help design a treatment plan that can result in recovery.  Substance abuse treatment can be highly successful.  Call us at 901-682-6136 to schedule an appointment.