Why Alcohol Addiction is More Prevalent in Certain Professions and How to Get Help

Alcohol addiction affects millions of people. Data from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism shows that over 28.9 million people had an alcohol use disorder in 2023. While alcohol use can affect individuals in various circumstances, alcohol addiction is more prevalent among certain professions. Risk factors such as long hours, work-related stress, physically and mentally demanding roles, and high-pressure situations can elevate the risk of alcohol abuse. 

Professions and Alcohol Abuse

Jobs that take their toll on emotional or psychological health and that can increase the risk of alcohol use include healthcare positions and roles filled by first responders, therapists and counselors, customer service representatives, teachers, and mentors. Severe stress and pressure may also accompany alcohol abuse for those with jobs in corporate leadership, healthcare, law enforcement, and the military. Data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests that 1 in 10 veterans has a substance use disorder.

The Role of Long Hours and Irregular Shifts

Working hours and routines can impact alcohol consumption. Here are some examples:

• Long hours and irregular shift patterns: People who work in emergency services, hospitality, or healthcare may be more vulnerable to alcohol abuse due to their work schedules.
• A lack of consistency in daily routines: Working shifts and long hours can impact consistency, leading to a lack of routine and downtime. Some people may use alcohol as a means to de-stress and decompress in such circumstances. 

The Culture of Drinking in Certain Professions

In some professions, drinking is part of the culture. Drinking alcohol regularly is normalized at after-work gatherings, social engagements, and corporate events. Example industries include hospitality, business, law, and entertainment. For some, it can be difficult to say “no” to alcohol if offered a drink by a colleague, client, or employer. 

When drinking is normalized in a professional setting or capacity, some may drink far more than they realize. 

Alcohol Addiction’s Impact on Career and Personal Life

Alcohol addiction can have far-reaching implications on professional and personal life. Examples include:

• Career prospects: Alcohol addiction can result in unemployment, poor decision-making, a lack of career progression, and limited opportunities. It can also affect professional reputation as well as the ability to perform certain tasks and roles.
• Personal relationships: Alcohol addiction often affects multiple people, including partners, siblings, parents, children, and friends. If you have an alcohol addiction, you may find that relationships break down and that maintaining relationships becomes increasingly difficult.
• Health and well-being: Drinking alcohol affects physical and mental health, putting those who drink at risk of severe conditions that impact both body and mind, such as depression, anxiety, heart disease, and liver disease. 

How to Recognize the Signs of Alcohol Addiction

Signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction to look out for include:

• Drinking as a coping mechanism
• Drinking alone
• Lying about drinking habits
• Drinking even when one knows it will make one feel worse
• Drinking even when one knows it will affect others negatively
• Blackouts and memory loss
• Increased alcohol tolerance
• Drinking more frequently or heavily
• Becoming more isolated
• Struggling to control how much one drinks
• Experiencing an urge to drink alcohol

Why Seeking Help for Alcohol Addiction Is Crucial

Seeking professional help with alcohol addiction is crucial for several reasons. These include:

• Getting the help and support needed before the situation gets worse
• Limiting career and relationship damage
• Improving health and well-being
• Accessing professional help and support
• Enhancing quality of life

Jackson House Recovery Centers provides customized support and treatment programs for alcohol addiction, helping professionals regain control and prevent further damage to career prospects, personal relationships, health, and well-being. Recovery is possible with the right guidance, resources, and support. 

Jackson House offers a wide range of residential alcohol addiction treatment and recovery programs and services, including:

• Supervised detoxification
• Individual and group therapy
• Immersive activities
• Medication management
• Health and nutrition advice
• Counseling

Ideas for Overcoming Alcohol Addiction for Those in High-Pressure Professions

Overcoming alcohol addiction connected to high-pressure professions may not be easy, but doing so is possible with the right mindset and support. Here are some ideas to support recovery:

• Set small, achievable goals to reduce alcohol consumption: Try to lower daily intake, include alcohol-free days, and change routines to avoid triggers.
• Spend less time with drinkers and avoid places where you usually drink. This is beneficial for social drinkers and those who drink after work or during work events. It’s often beneficial to change your routine or to embrace activities that don’t involve drinking.
• Set clear boundaries that will help you reduce alcohol intake.
• Create healthier coping mechanisms. Embrace new ways to distract yourself from work stresses or to decompress, such as exercise, spending time with friends, and taking up new hobbies.
• Prioritize self-care and downtime.
• Reach out for help. Seek professional or peer support via support groups, online resources, or in-person therapy or counseling

Residential Alcohol Addiction Treatment in San Diego

Jackson House is here to help those struggling with alcohol addiction. If you need advice, are worried about how much you drink, or are looking for guidance to help a loved one, our expert team is available. For more information, contact Jackson House Recovery Centers today.