The hidden cost of alcohol in the workplace

Management

Sobriety coach Tabbin Almond describes how to manage the impact of alcohol at work and build a healthier culture

I describe alcohol consumption in the workplace as a wellbeing blind spot. Many businesses are unaware of it, whilst others choose to ignore or downplay it. Booze may seem like a harmless part of social gatherings or corporate bonding, but the consequences of employees regularly drinking even moderate amounts of alcohol can be far-reaching.

Alcohol in the workplace

We may joke about beer-fear and hanxiety, but they are for real. Reliable, large-scale research studies, including meta-analyses, show that even small amounts of alcohol can impair both sleep and cognitive function, reduce mental clarity, and contribute to long-term mental health issues, such as anxiety, stress, and depression. Over time, this creates a cumulative impact on both individual well-being and organisational performance.

The damage doesn’t stop at mental health. Heavy drinking can lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD), a progressive condition that, in many cases, remains hidden from employers. Studies indicate that up to 1 in 10 workers may be affected by AUD, but the stigma surrounding addiction makes it hard for employees to ask for help.

The social and professional pressure to drink in certain environments can exacerbate this, particularly for individuals who do not want to risk their reputation or career by admitting to a problem.

There is also an important DE&I aspect to this. The pressure to conform to social norms around alcohol can create an environment where employees feel excluded if they choose not to drink. This exclusion can lead to a toxic atmosphere, undermining morale and productivity.

For businesses to thrive, it is crucial that alcohol is not the dividing line between belonging and alienation.

Reducing a workforce’s overall alcohol consumption is almost guaranteed to lead to healthier employees, a more productive workplace, and a reputation as a responsible employer, but it needs to be done sensitively.

Addressing alcohol issues

Addressing alcohol use in the workplace is challenging, particularly for business leaders who may feel hypocritical about addressing the issue while still engaging in similar behaviours themselves. Alcohol is deeply ingrained in workplace culture, with social events, client dinners, and even team-building exercises often centred around drinking.

Leaders who have own drinking habits may be somewhat unhealthy will generally hesitate to initiate change, fearing it could be perceived as judgmental or even self-contradictory. I’ve spoken to many business leaders whose approach is to ‘let sleeping dogs lie’, or to ‘avoid poking the fire’. Others realise that change is needed, but are uncertain about how to effect this change.

Managing alcohol in the workplace

Tackling alcohol-related issues requires a thoughtful, compassionate approach. Here are several practical strategies businesses can implement to manage alcohol consumption and create a healthier, more inclusive culture:

Assess the current culture: Start by conducting an honest evaluation of your organisation’s alcohol culture. Look at workplace events, client interactions, and the general attitude toward drinking. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, or even external audits. Understanding the current state will guide the necessary changes. There is a link to a free assessment tool at the end of this article.
Establish clear policies and communication: Develop and communicate clear guidelines about alcohol consumption within the workplace. Alcohol should not be an expectation for bonding or career progression. Make it clear that consuming alcohol is a personal choice, and no employee should feel pressured to drink. Additionally, ensure that these policies are communicated from the top down, with leaders setting the example.
Offer support for employees struggling with alcohol use: It’s essential to create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help for alcohol-related issues. Responsible employers will be providing confidential counselling services, access to treatment programs, and coaching to help those who need it. The key is to de-stigmatise the conversation around alcohol and make it a part of the overall health and wellness conversation.
Promote alcohol-free alternatives: If your workplace culture revolves around alcohol, it’s time to rethink your approach. Shift from alcohol-centred events to healthier bonding activities. Offer alternatives, such as games, fitness challenges, or team-building activities that don’t involve drinking. And, very importantly, make sure that every social event offers a good range of alcohol free drinks. This can help change the underlying culture and provide employees with options that don’t make them feel uncomfortable.
Lead by example: Senior leadership must take the lead in changing the alcohol culture within the organisation. When leaders model healthy behaviours, it sets the tone for the rest of the organization. Senior leaders should be open about their own relationship with alcohol, sharing their personal choices and commitment to a healthier workplace. This transparency will help build trust and encourage others to do the same.
Foster an inclusive environment: Make sure that your workplace culture is inclusive of people who choose not to drink. Respecting personal boundaries and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all employees is crucial for promoting diversity and inclusion. This also means reconsidering the use of alcohol as a reward or incentive.
Engage in continuous dialogue: Changing a workplace culture around alcohol is not a one-time effort; it’s a continuous process. Regular check-ins, feedback loops, and open conversations about the topic will help keep the momentum going. As part of this process, organisations should celebrate those who make positive changes and ensure that those struggling with alcohol use feel supported rather than punished.

The benefits of a healthy alcohol culture

Businesses that address their culture around alcohol will reap multiple benefits. A healthier workforce translates into improved productivity, lower absenteeism, and a better work-life balance for employees. Furthermore, fostering an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable and supported leads to higher job satisfaction, better retention rates, and an enhanced company reputation.

As societal attitudes toward alcohol continue to evolve, businesses that proactively change their culture around alcohol will be ahead of the curve. Not only will they attract top talent, particularly from younger generations who are increasingly opting for alcohol-free lifestyles, but they will also position themselves as leaders in corporate responsibility.

Alcohol: a complex issue

Alcohol in the workplace is a complex issue that can no longer be ignored. While it may seem like a small part of the workplace environment, its impact on mental health, productivity, and inclusivity is profound. By addressing alcohol consumption thoughtfully and empathetically, businesses can build a healthier, more supportive workplace culture that benefits everyone.

Tabbin Almond is a sobriety coach and author from the south-west of England. Visit Wine To Water Coaching for a free assessment of your organisation’s current alcohol culture

Main image courtesy of iStockPhoto.com and Farion_O