Alcohol and work: building better habits for a healthier working life

Have you ever thought about how alcohol and work affect each other? With many of us spending over 1,400 hours a year at work, the workplace is one of the places where the effects of alcohol, both positive and negative, are felt. After-work drinks. Stress-related drinking. Impacts on productivity and wellbeing. All these show that the connection between alcohol and our working lives deserves attention. It’s important for employers and employees to make small changes that promote more inclusive and healthy workplaces.

The risks of mixing alcohol and work

Alcohol consumption can have a big impact on workplaces. Including for performance, safety, and overall wellbeing. Moderate drinking may seem harmless. But regular or excessive use can be risky in a number of ways.

Productivity is one of the most immediate areas affected. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair focus and decision-making. 

Hangovers have a big impact on absenteeism and ‘presenteeism’ (being physically but not mentally present). Lost productivity due to alcohol costs the UK economy billions of pounds annually.

Furthermore, safety risks increase a lot with alcohol use at work. This is particularly important for roles using machinery, vehicles or requiring careful judgement. Alcohol affects reaction times and judgement. This leads to costly or even dangerous mistakes.

For shift workers, the line between alcohol and work may be even more blurred. Non-traditional patterns of work make socialising with alcohol more difficult. And increases the risks of turning up to work still affected by social drinking. 

Mental health is another critical concern. Alcohol is a depressant, and its use is closely linked to anxiety, stress, and low mood. All of these reduce workplace engagement and satisfaction. Many people use alcohol as a coping mechanism for work-related pressure. But this creates a damaging cycle.

Finally, alcohol can influence workplace relationships. Individuals may experience mood swings, irritability or low mood. Or there may be inappropriate behaviour because of drinking. All of this can affect relationships and trust within the workplace. 

What if alcohol and work are intertwined?

In many workplaces, alcohol is an accepted part of the culture. Or perhaps one that is actively encouraged. From Friday drinks to celebrations to boozy networking events – alcohol and work are often tied together. While these sorts of events can be fun and build working relationships. They also reinforce unhealthy drinking habits. And exclude those who choose not to drink.

When drinking at work is encouraged, employees can feel pressure to join in, so they fit in. This is particularly challenging for individuals recovering from addiction. Or employees who don’t drink for cultural reasons. But it’s also true for those simply choosing to cut back.

This culture encourages regular drinking. And also blurs the boundaries between alcohol and work. This can make it harder for people to spot and address early signs of problematic drinking. 

Encourage alcohol-free workplace events that include everyone. This is a key first step in building a healthier work culture. Recognising that social connection doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol means that no employees are excluded.

How employers can help

Employers play a vital role in shaping our workplaces. They set the tone for healthy work environments and supporting staff wellbeing. And this should include addressing alcohol-related issues. Take small, proactive steps to create a healthier culture. Focus on reducing harm, improving productivity and fostering a more inclusive workplace culture.

Establish clear policies

Develop and communicate an alcohol policy. This should outline expectations and ways of seeking help. And it should balance accountability with a compassionate approach. Offer a non-judgemental way to get support and make changes. 

Provide training for managers

Train line managers to support employees with alcohol-related issues. This could include spotting the early signs of problems. Or understanding how to listen compassionately. Give all managers the information they need to signpost their teams to helpful professional support. It’s important to communicate that help is available and that you don’t have to deal with issues alone.

Promote open dialogue

Create a culture where employees feel safe discussing alcohol use without fear of stigma. Normalising conversations around wellbeing can encourage those struggling to come forward.

Offer access to support services

Partner with organisations like Essex Wellbeing Service (EWS). We provide confidential support, counselling, and resources for staff. Making help easily accessible sends a powerful message that wellbeing is a priority. Talk to us about the different ways we can partner with you.

Get the support you need

At EWS, we understand the complex relationship between alcohol and the workplace. And we’re here to help individuals and organisations make changes.

We offer a range of free, confidential services for Essex residents:

• 1:1 alcohol support – Our trained advisors offer non-judgemental, personalised guidance.
• Workplace workshops – We provide engaging, informative sessions for businesses. These explore the effects of alcohol on work performance, stress, and wellbeing.
• Employer guidance – Our team helps organisations develop alcohol policies. We can also signposting resources for managers.
• Educational materials – We provide leaflets, toolkits, and digital resources. These help raise awareness and promote healthier choices in the workplace.

Whether you’re looking to make a small change or a whole-company wellbeing initiative, EWS is here to help.

Take your next step 

Considering the impact of your approach to alcohol and work is the first step. Whether you’re an employee, organisation or someone thinking about a loved one. Why not use July’s upcoming Alcohol Awareness Week to focus your efforts, or do some more research on the impacts of alcohol?

Small changes can lead to healthier habits. Start making yours today!

Reach out to us at Essex Wellbeing Services for support, whether you’re an employer or an employee.