Employees are more susceptible to alcohol addiction if they are experiencing periods of stress and anxiety. And, according to research from Ciphr in August 2024, one in nine people feel stressed every day.
Nearly a third of respondents stated that work in general is the main cause of their stress, and two fifths blamed feeling tired and insufficient sleep.
According to the UK Health Security Agency’s 2020 research, around one in four people who are dependent on alcohol are already receiving mental health medication for anxiety and depression.
Read more: How to create a safe culture for discussing alcohol issues
Many turn to alcohol to deal with symptoms of stress, such as overthinking, difficulty sleeping and low mood.
The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities predicted in March 2024 that more than 608,000 people struggle with alcohol addiction, a figure which rises every year.
As more people experience workplace stress, it’s never been more important for HR departments to be aware of subtle signs of addiction, and how they can support staff members.
Signs an employee is struggling
The most common time for people to struggle with symptoms of alcohol addiction is in the evening, which is outside of core working hours. This makes alcohol addiction difficult for colleagues to see.
Read more: Alcohol at work
However, for those who know what to look for, there are clear signs.
These include:
● Frequent loss of control around alcohol at work social events.
● Memory impairment.
● Increased absenteeism.
● Anxiety and depression due to damage to the brain’s dopamine system.
● Maladaptive and destructive behaviours, such as speaking rudely to staff members or acting disproportionately.
● Arriving at work under the influence, smelling of alcohol or being visibly hungover.
● Changes in reliability.
● Working long hours showing signs of stress.
● Financial difficulties.
What can HR do to help?
It is not just the responsibility of friends and family to provide support, but HR departments too. As the workplace is a leading cause of stress in the UK, having a robust intervention plan in place is crucial to support employees who may begin to struggle.
Creating an open working environment in which employees feel comfortable reaching out with any issues they may have is a step in the right direction.
This can prevent spiralling, and also help with employees who feel at risk of addiction relapse.
Read more: More support needed for employees with drug and alcohol misuse
Addiction should not be treated in the same way as mental health issues such as anxiety and depression by HR departments. Helping employees who are struggling with alcohol addiction requires layers of support and protection to ensure staff that they can speak up without fear of losing their jobs.
Having resources available in a company drive about addiction and advice for those struggling begins the conversation and shows employees that they will be treated without judgement.
Making close relationships with local therapists and rehabilitation clinics will make it quick and easy for HR departments to make referrals.
Medical detox is often required for those who have been reliant on alcohol for a longer period of time, making it important to select a clinic that provides 24-hour care during this stage.
Some rehabilitation clinics offer family support services, providing a safe space for the employee’s support network to receive advice and play an active part in their recovery journey.
The best thing HR can do to support employees is to remain non-judgemental and open.
Attitudes are slowly shifting in the UK to be more accepting of those who have struggled with addiction, and the workplace needs to mirror this.
By Martin Preston, CEO and founder of Delamere
