People who are shy or less sociable often view alcohol as a way to relax in social settings and facilitate communication. Keeping this in mind, many companies today introduced alcohol as part of workplace culture, whether in social gatherings or as after-work drinks, and even as part of team-building activities. West Virginia’s unique industries, like coal, manufacturing, healthcare, and the corporate sector, embraced this and shaped workplace drinking norms with the idea of alleviating pressure or appearing less formal. Still, there are many dangers in allowing alcohol in the workplace. It’s not unusual for people to develop alcohol dependence due to cultural pressure. Harmony Ridge West Virginia treatment center can help you overcome it.
Alcohol as a Social and Networking Tool
Having alcohol in the workplace is not a novelty nor a total surprise. Alcohol is one of the most addictive substances, yet many cultures promote alcohol consumption in everyday life as a means to relax, connect, or communicate with more ease. Oftentimes, people build relationships and create bonds over joint drinking occasions. If you relate to this, non-alcoholic beverages in social settings are also an option. By opting for a non-alcoholic option, you won’t have to jeopardize your sobriety or give in to societal pressures.
Drinking at work has become a common practice today. Both the corporate and blue-collar sectors view it as an integral part of networking. In the corporate sector, it’s often part of workplace happy hours, client meetings, and office parties. This way, drinking is not only acceptable but promoted. While the employer may prohibit alcohol abuse in the workplace, there is no alcohol in the workplace law that prohibits alcohol consumption the employer agreed upon.
The Risks of a Drinking Culture at Work
Many scientific studies have shown the role peer pressure plays in developing dependence and addiction to forbidden substances. A work culture that encourages alcohol consumption and continuously creates opportunities for heavy drinking is putting its employees at risk of developing alcohol dependency. As medical history and history of substance abuse are confidential information, the majority of companies do not consider the potential of one of their employees mixing their medications with alcohol (the antipsychotics and alcohol combination being especially dangerous).
They also lack information about whether someone is in recovery from addiction. In addition to increasing the risk of relapse or complications in one’s medical condition, companies are contributing significantly to workplace safety concerns, particularly in physically demanding industries like mining and construction. Furthermore, productivity issues may arise, including absenteeism, reduced performance, and impaired decision-making.
Substance Abuse Trends in West Virginia
The overall state of industry and marketplace in West Virginia is such that employees are exposed to high levels of workplace stress, often addressed with maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as alcohol use. Data on alcohol and substance abuse calls for immediate reaction and professional assistance.
Available data on alcohol consumption in West Virginia shows that, on average, around 500,000 people aged 18 or more drink, out of which nearly 250,000 binge drink. While only 4.4% meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder, everyone who drinks heavily is at risk of developing alcoholism.
A positive note on the opioid crisis in West Virginia is that since 2020, West Virginia has consistently surpassed US averages when it comes to initiating and engaging those with opioid abuse and dependence with treatment. It can be somewhat attributed to the increased number of rehabs in WV that accept Medicaid and specialized facilities, such as Harmony Ridge Recovery Center.
Employer Responsibility and Alcohol Policies
As an employer, you should take responsibility for what’s happening in your company. At the end of the day, companies are the ones creating policies, establishing rules, and encouraging certain behaviors.
So, how can you prevent irresponsible alcohol consumption in the workplace?
- Create HR policies that prevent alcohol misuse. These policies should have established rules and consequences. This way, a portion of the responsibility is on employees as well.
- If you decide to keep alcohol in the workplace, you can establish a 20-minute rule for alcohol consumption. What is the 20 minute rule for alcohol? The rule states that after having a drink, you should take a 20-minute break before having the next one. This way, you’re preventing binge drinking at work.
- Introduce Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for workers struggling with alcohol issues. Not only are you helping employees overcome their struggles, but you’re also establishing a culture of acceptance and support.
- Encourage a healthier workplace culture with education and initiatives focused on well-being instead of indulgence and intoxication.
Encouraging a Healthier Workplace Culture
Rather than promoting alcohol consumption in the workplace, companies can dedicate themselves to encouraging a healthier workplace culture. From organizing events and team-building activities that do not revolve around alcohol to promoting mental health and wellness through campaigns and initiatives, there are many ways how to deal with alcoholism in the workplace.
Furthermore, companies can fight alcoholism in the workplace by educating employees about responsible drinking and substance use. For those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace, companies can suggest recovery facilities, like Harmony Ridge alcohol rehab Fairmont WV, and provide a supportive environment.
Creating a Healthier Work Culture Together
If alcohol in the workplace feels normal where you work, you’re not alone. Many companies still treat drinking as a social tool, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe or healthy. If you feel pressured to drink or notice someone struggling, it’s okay to speak up. You don’t need to deal with it alone. Talk to HR, ask about support programs, or reach out to a treatment center. It’s also helpful to learn how to deal with alcoholism in the workplace—especially if someone’s health or safety is at risk. Whether you’re an employee or an employer, small changes can make a real difference. You can help build a safer and healthier work culture, one where no one feels forced to drink.
Sources:
https://www.usccr.gov/files/pubs/ada/ch4.htm
https://dhhr.wv.gov/News/2024/Pages/West-Virginia-Department-of-Human-Services-Reports-Significant-Reduction-in-Overdose-Fatalities.aspx
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt44486/2022-nsduh-sae-state-tables/NSDUHsaeWestVirginia2022.pdf
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/West%20Virginia-BH-BarometerVolume5.pdf
