Am I an Alcoholic

Am I An Alcoholic?

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Alcohol abuse, alcohol addiction, alcohol dependency—with so many terms referencing an alcohol use disorder it may make the actual definition of alcoholism seem murky and confusing.  In reality, alcoholism is a complex substance use disorder with various features that help define the severity of the problem, or whether the alcohol use, although excessive, even reaches the clinical definition of the disease.

According to the definition of alcoholism by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, alcoholism is:

  1. Continued excessive or compulsive use of alcoholic drinks
  2. a.  Chronic, progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction
  3.  Acute alcohol poisoning resulting from the usually rapid consumption of excessive alcoholic beverages

Well, this serves as a starting point in understanding the nuances of alcoholism, but still allows for different interpretations of what exactly constitutes alcoholism.  If you are asking yourself “Am I an alcoholic” or “Do I need addiction treatment” then this blog may offer some helpful information.

What Exactly is Alcoholism?

It is difficult to know whether someone is an alcoholic or just

a problem drinker.  Some people can abuse alcohol for years without developing alcohol dependence. Others may be high-functioning alcoholics, able to be successful at a career and fulfilling family obligations even though they consume high amounts of alcohol.  Eventually, however, abusing alcohol for an extended time period will take a toll one way or another. Health will be impacted, cognitive decline occurs, or there might be a DUI arrest that creates legal headaches—even if the individual never became alcoholic in the classical sense.

Risk Factors For Alcoholism

So why is it that some heavy drinkers become alcoholics and others do not?  There are some risk factors for alcoholism that can predispose an individual to become an alcoholic.  The genetic component is one such factor. If someone has a strong family history of alcoholism there is a much higher probability that they could also become an alcoholic.  A co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or generalized anxiety can also result in alcohol dependence, as the individual seeks to numb emotional pain or symptoms of anxiety.

A series of difficult life events, such as losing a loved one, divorce, losing a job, or experiencing or witnessing trauma can all contribute to depending on alcohol to soothe the emotional symptoms that are experienced as a result of the negative events.  

So, Am I an Alcoholic?

There are behavioral symptoms that an addiction is forming that can serve as warning signs.  These might include:

  • Obsessing over when you can drink next or how to obtain the alcohol
  • Trying to quit drinking and cannot
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Loss of interest in the activities once enjoyed
  • Drinking more and more alcohol as tolerance increases
  • Mood swings
  • Losing interest in maintaining personal appearance and hygiene
  • Irritability
  • Concentration problems
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Alcohol cravings
  • When an attempt to quit drinking withdrawal symptoms emerge

10 Signs that Help Answer the Question, “Am I an Alcoholic?”

There are some universal signs that someone has crossed into alcoholism.  The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) has an online questionnaire that can help you determine if you have a problem with alcohol.  Among the points the NCADD includes are:

  1. You avoid friends and family while drinking
  2. You consume higher quantities of alcohol as time goes on
  3. You drink in response to stress, sadness, anger, or disappointment
  4. You have hand tremors in the morning
  5. You cannot remember things you said or did the night before
  6. You are experiencing financial, legal, career, or family problems due to drinking
  7. Your doctor advised you to cut down on alcohol
  8. You lie about how much alcohol you drink
  9. You are preoccupied during the day with drinking or crave alcohol
  10. You get drunk several days in a row

Treatment for Alcoholism

Getting treatment for an alcohol use disorder is life changing.  After completing detox, you will enter into an extended period of active treatment during which you will immerse yourself in a variety of therapeutic activities that all work together to help you overcome the alcoholism.  This will include individual talk therapy with a clinical psychotherapist who will guide you in examining any past traumas or emotional pain that might be driving the need to drink. Group therapy sessions allow a peer support system to develop where clients can help each other and share experiences.  Medications, such as naltrexone, can be used for the early phase of recovery to help reduce alcohol cravings. Recreational therapies, such as yoga, hiking, exercise sessions, golf, tennis, or surfing can take some pressure off and infuse some social activities during treatment.

Golf Drug Rehab Provides Superior Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment in Southern California

Golf Drug Rehab is a luxury drug and alcohol addiction treatment program in California.  The expert and compassionate clinical staff at Golf Drug Rehab is highly trained in detox and addiction treatment for individuals in need of help for an alcohol use disorder.  Offering the very latest treatment modalities and three amazing golf courses to help clients enjoy some recreational therapy, Golf Drug Rehab provides the perfect blend of therapy and golf.  If you are wondering “Am I an alcoholic?” or have questions about our program, call Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.

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executive rehab

Luxury Rehab for Executive Addicts with a Passion for Golf

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When offered that corner office with the placard on the door it didn’t come with an instruction manual on how to manage the stress that the job would involve.  When daily pressures mount due to the increasing demands of an executive level position, it is common for alcohol or drugs to become the panacea for stress release. Unfortunately, people in high-powered jobs might find that, over time, their attempts to alleviate stress with alcohol or drugs can result in a substance use disorder.

Thankfully, there are now many treatment options available that cater to the busy professional, including luxury rehab for executive addicts.  These premier rehabs not only offer the finest amenities, gorgeous locations, and top-of-the-line accommodations, but some now also cater to a favorite pastime of executives—golf.  Golf provides not only a diversion from the challenges that newfound sobriety often involves, but can be therapeutic in the rehab process.

What are the Signs of Addiction?

In the craziness of life and with a career that has unceasing demands it is very common to reach for some kind of relief in the form of a drug or alcohol.  Some may use stimulants to increase their focus, energy level, and stamina, while others may use benzodiazepines or alcohol (sedatives) to take the edge off the stress load.  At some point, this can get away from you and certain signs of addiction may appear.  These might include:

  • Looking forward to the next pill, hit, or drink to get through the day
  • Lying about how much you are relying on the substance of abuse
  • Beginning to let responsibilities and family obligations slide
  • Reduced job performance
  • Continuing to use the substance regardless of the harm it is doing
  • Unable to stop the drugs or excessive alcohol consumption
  • Beginning to isolate socially

What is Luxury Rehab for Executive Addicts?

What sets apart the rehab for executives are the amenities offered that enable the client to continue to engage in their business or job capacity to some degree.  By accommodating the professional’s need for certain tools of technology for work-related activities, as well as providing top-notch luxury services, the luxury rehab for executive addicts satisfies these important requirements.

Luxury rehab is typically a smaller, more intimate venue with the finest appointments, including organic gourmet meals, holistic spa-type services, and special recreational perks such as fishing trips, golf, surfing, or even day trips.  Some luxury rehabs are even pet friendly rehab or provide drug rehab for couples. This is all in addition to providing the highest standard of addiction treatment and care.  Treatment includes drug and alcohol detox, individual psychotherapy sessions, group counseling, addiction education and relapse prevention planning, 12-step programs and meetings, and other adjunct therapies.

Aftercare in Early Recovery

After completing the program for substance abuse or addiction, it is advisable to receive continuing care on an outpatient basis for a minimum of 3 months.  Living a sober lifestyle takes time to adjust to, and new habits take time to form.  This is why ongoing group counseling or one-on-one talk therapy is so important in the early days of recovery.  This ongoing support helps reinforce the new coping techniques and fine-tune all the things learned in rehab.

Golf Drug Rehab Offers Luxury Rehab for Executive Addicts

Golf Drug Rehab provides premium luxury accommodations for the busy executive in the stunning coastal community in a private and exclusive area in Southern California. Our clients come to treatment from all over the United States and international. Ask us about assistance with providing pick ups from the airport when coming from out of town to rehab.  Understanding the passion that many high-level professionals have for golf, Golf Drug Rehab has designed a drug and alcohol treatment program that features three golf courses as a wonderful source of exercise, fresh air, and emotional replenishment—an excellent diversion while going through treatment.  Golf Drug Rehab provides luxury amenities and expert therapists that will guide you toward a fulfilling new life in recovery.  For more information about the program, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (888) 529-2114.

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Rehab for Professionals

Alcohol Rehab for Professionals and Executives

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When alcohol addiction affects someone who is in a leadership position at work it can present a difficult dilemma.  How does this executive, with all the many job responsibilities that cannot simply be ignored, manage to get treatment for the alcohol problem?  This quandary has led to the formation of specialized niche rehabs that have created certain adaptations in their programs to accommodate the busy executive.

In addition to providing technology and office equipment that allows the executive to remain engaged with the office while in rehab, an alcohol rehab for professionals often includes special recreational activities and holistic therapies.  These amenities provide opportunities for relaxation and make the time in rehab more enjoyable.

Why Does Alcoholism Only Impact Certain Professionals?

As someone who is surrounded each day by colleagues, it may cross your mind that only some who hold down high-stress jobs have acquired an alcohol abuse or addiction problem.  It is true that alcohol dependency does not attach itself to all people, even if some of these colleagues consume even more liquor.  Although over 15 million adults in the U.S. suffer from an alcohol use disorder, the assumption that alcohol will affect every individual the same is simply a myth.

The reality is that a certain minority of individuals will find themselves with an alcohol addiction due to factors that still remain a mystery.  There are certain underlying factors that can influence alcohol addiction, such as genetics, where a family history of alcoholism exists.  Other causes might include brain chemistry imbalance, a co-occurring mental health disorder, past traumas, or beginning to drink heavily in youth.

Working in a highly stressful environment can exacerbate the need for using alcohol at a higher consumption level than most.  Alcohol is a depressant, so some busy executives seek to relax and be relieved from stress through the use of alcoholic beverages.  If they are predisposed to alcoholism, as tolerance increases he or she will use increasingly higher amounts, which can lead to addiction.

What is Alcohol Rehab for Professionals Like?

The initial step in getting help for alcohol abuse or addiction is to undergo a supervised detox and withdrawal.  Detoxing from alcohol necessitates certain safety protocols because of the risk of seizures or delirium tremens, which can be fatal.  A detox team will guide the professional through the process and manage the withdrawal symptoms throughout.  In certain cases, naltrexone can be prescribed to help manage alcohol cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.

During the treatment phase of rehab, the executive will engage in a variety of therapeutic activities.  Addiction treatment is customized for the individual’s specific needs, so the therapy will be selected accordingly.  All individuals will participate in individual talk therapy, group therapy, and 12-step or similar non-12-step recovery meetings.  Rehab programs range from 2 weeks to 6 months or more, depending on need and resources.

How Do the Added Amenities Help in Alcohol Rehab for Professionals?

Executive rehab programs are unique because of the premium locations, high-end accommodations, private rooms, and work accommodations.  It is understood that the busy professional will need certain tools available to be able to continue to connect with colleagues and subordinates.  These programs will likely make every effort to accommodate the needs of the professional client who still needs to engage at work while in treatment.

In addition, executive rehabs will provide special holistic activities that may resemble a spa or resort.  Massage therapy, sauna, yoga classes, and acupuncture aid in stress relief and promote relaxation.  Recreational activities, such as golf, fishing, hiking, or boating may round out the program.

Golf Drug Rehab at Capo by The Sea Provides Luxury Alcohol Rehab for Professionals

Golf Drug Rehab at Capo by The Sea is a premier alcohol and drug treatment program located in picturesque Dana Point, California.  With expert addiction professionals at the helm, Golf Drug Rehab will provide detox and alcohol treatment, including a truncated two-week rehab program option.  As its name implies, Golf Drug Rehab features three stunning golf courses for the executive in rehab to enjoy throughout his or her stay.  For more information about the program, contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320

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high stress jobs

High Stress Jobs and Addiction

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Work Stress Could Lead to Addiction

There is a reason for the popularity of happy hour, that post-workday stop at a local watering hole for an alcoholic beverage. When the balance between work and life is seriously out of whack there is a higher probability that those who suffer from workplace stress will gravitate toward drugs or alcohol to help modulate the effects of that stress.

It is true that each person has his or her own unique ability to manage stress. Some are hardwired to overreact to stressors on the job, while others let it roll right off their back. Individual temperaments, or personality traits, are those characteristics about ourselves that we can’t really “fix” but rather must learn how to work with or workaround.

For example, someone who is prone to an exaggerated stress response would not be a good fit as a first responder. The daily exposure to stress-inducing situations would just exacerbate that tendency and may set the person up for a future substance use disorder as a quick and easy coping mechanism. Eventually, this stress response, using drugs or alcohol to quell job-related stress, can become habitual and lead to addiction.

What Are the High Stress Jobs?

While a job that one person considers to be too stressful might be perceived as exciting and stimulating to another, there are certain professions that do produce higher levels of stress across the board. Deadline driven jobs, trauma-related jobs, and overly demanding jobs are renowned culprits.

According to CareerCast, a website that specializes in job search and career advice, the most stressful careers include:

  1. Enlisted military personnel
  2. Firefighter
  3. Airline pilots
  4. Police officers
  5. Event coordinators
  6. Public relations executive
  7. Senior corporate executive
  8. Broadcaster
  9. Newspaper reporter
  10. Taxi driver

High stress jobs and addiction often go hand in hand. Individuals who feel overwhelmed by the demands of their chosen occupation may reach for the bottle or a sedative, such as benzo, to relieve the tension held in their bodies after a day’s work. Over time these kinds of high stress jobs will take their toll on both physical and mental health.

Signs That Your Job is Leading You Into Addiction

What may have begun as a harmless beer after work can surprisingly result in full-blown alcoholism for some people. Genetic predisposition to alcoholism, brain chemistry, a co-occurring mood disorder, or a series of other stressful life events may cause some to incrementally increase their alcohol consumption. For individuals who lean on alcohol as a coping tool for work-related stress, alcoholism can stealthily creep in.

The same could be said for the individual who struggles with an anxiety disorder and sought help for it. He or she may have been given a prescription for Xanax or Valium, both benzodiazepines that has a sedative, or depressant effect on the central nervous system. These medications happen to be very psychologically addicting, causing the individual to begin to rely on them any time they feel the slightest bit stressed out. If these folks are in high stress jobs, the medication may be abused to the point that addiction develops.

Signs of drug or alcohol addiction include:

  • Increased tolerance to the effects of the substance, leading to higher consumption
  • Planning one’s day around using drugs or alcohol, prioritizing substance abuse
  • Declining job performance
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Interpersonal problems
  • Mood swings
  • Obsessed with obtaining the substance
  • Secretive behaviors, such as hiding booze
  • Doctor shopping for pills
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Withdrawing socially
  • Attempts to discontinue or stock using drugs or alcohol fail
  • Experience withdrawal symptoms when the substance is unavailable

Treatment for Drug or Alcohol Addiction

When high stress jobs have resulted in addiction it is time to take a pause and address your mental health needs. Recovery will entail detox and withdrawal, psychotherapy, 12-step programming, medication management, and learning some recovery skills to help ensure sustained sobriety.

In addition to the treatment program benefits, it is helpful to reconsider your career path if returning to it will only trigger the addiction reflex again. Sometimes the rehab experience can lead to a shift in priorities and profound life changes that will greatly benefit the individual in the long run.

Golf Drug Rehab Luxury Addiction Recovery in Orange County

Golf Drug Rehab is an upscale treatment center situated in a beautiful coastal community in South Orange County, California. High stress jobs can take a heavy toll, leading to drug or alcohol dependency and depleted physical health. At Golf Drug Rehab our clinical team is dedicated to partnering with you every step of the way. Our unique rehab features the best in evidence-based treatments in addition to recreational golf therapy, with three spectacular local golf courses to access while in treatment. For more details about the program, connect with Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.

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Luxury Private Rooms Rehab Centers

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You may have reached the point where a substance use disorder is causing major disruption and destruction in your career, home life, relationships, and finances, rehab may be on the horizon. If you are considering getting treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction there are many options to be aware of. Treatment programs usually operate under a stated philosophy, carving out their own identity and niche in a very crowded industry. One of these niches is the luxury rehab center.

The luxury rehab segment of the treatment landscape tends to attract individuals who are accustomed to the finer things in life. They have reached a certain level of success in their professional life and tend to gravitate toward upscale accommodations and services in their private lives. For these affluent individuals, it is unthinkable to reside in a rehab environment that does not reach certain standards. Seeking luxury private rooms rehab centers that will cater to their expectations of excellence is a given.

About Luxury Rehabs

It is important to understand that, while it is wonderful to enjoy the posh surroundings of an upscale treatment center, the priority of the rehab should be squarely centered on the serious work of addiction treatment. A high quality luxury rehab will utilize research-based therapeutic interventions that have been shown to be effective in helping individuals overcome a drug or alcohol addiction. Going a step further, these high-end programs should emphasize individualized programming that aligns with the unique needs of each client.

Secondary to the evidence-based therapies are the premier amenities and accommodations offered at the rehab. Clients seeking luxury private rooms rehab centers are accustomed to deluxe accommodations and all that goes with them. Plush creature comforts, a scenic and tranquil setting, spa-like amenities, an executive chef, and housekeeping services are common in these premium rehab programs. The programs tend to be small and intimate, feeling a bit like a retreat from the busy lives the clients have stepped away from.

What to Expect at Luxury Private Rooms Rehab Centers

The treatment plan designed for each client will be unique and tailored specifically for the client based on the intake evaluation, history of addiction, type of substance of abuse, general health status, and whether there is a co-occurring mental health condition. For this reason, each client’s journey through the rehab experience will be unique to his treatment needs and recovery goals.

During a given day at a residential luxury rehab, the client can expect to see a full schedule of various therapies and activities that work in sync to bring about sustained change. For the better part of the day, the client will participate in meetings and therapy sessions, as well as adjunctive therapies and recreational activities.

Treatment elements may include:

  • Detox. A supervised detox by trained providers who will oversee and manage withdrawal symptoms using medications.
  • Individual psychotherapy. These one-on-one sessions allow the client to discuss past traumas, significant life events, and daily challenges with a licensed psychotherapist. Examining and healing from these issues is intrinsic to long-term recovery success.
  • Group therapy. Small groups gather to discuss personal stories, challenges, fears, and successes with a clinician leading the topics of discussion. These groups offer the peer support that is so beneficial during the treatment and recovery process.
  • Education. Classes that teach clients the bio-neurological mechanisms of addiction can help them understand how the addiction developed and deter them from returning to the substance. Relapse prevention strategizing is also part of the curriculum.
  • Adjunctive therapies. For clients with co-occurring trauma disorder, eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) is helpful in incrementally exposing the client to the discussion of the trauma, which can reduce the impact of the trauma. Other activities that complement the traditional therapies include:
  • Yoga classes
  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Art therapy
  • Recreational therapy
  • Medication management. Some clients may benefit from naltrexone, with is a drug therapy to help reduce cravings and relapse. Individuals with a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety disorder, may benefit from antidepressants or other psychotropic medication.

Golf Drug Rehab is a Luxury Rehab Program in Southern California

Golf Drug Rehab is a high-end addiction rehabilitation program in coastal Orange County. Offering the finest accommodations, the most effective evidence-based treatment modalities, and recreational golf at three local golf courses, Golf Drug Rehab is perfectly suited for the well-heeled professional seeking a new life in recovery. Individuals who participate in the treatment program at Golf Drug Rehab find a well-managed, effective program that blends elements of luxury with the serious business of reshaping one’s behaviors and embracing a new sober lifestyle. For more information about luxury private rooms rehab centers, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320.

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Residential-Drug-Rehab-for-Men

Residential Drug Rehab for Men

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Getting treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction is serious stuff. The programs demand a high level of commitment and motivation to be effective. Distractions while in treatment can reduce the effects of therapy, even sabotaging one’s efforts completely, so this makes a good case for seeking a residential drug rehab for men only. In a gender-specific program, individuals find they have fewer distractions and may even be more comfortable in the rehab setting.

Residential drug rehab for men is designed to acknowledge the specific needs and preferences of males, better targeting the therapies that might resonate better overall. These programs tend to incorporate recreational therapy into the rehab, as outdoor activities have been shown to enhance the commitment level as well as improve physical and emotional wellbeing.

When is it Time to Get Treatment For Drug Addiction?

In what seems like the blink of an eye, someone may find themselves suddenly dependent on prescription medication, such as OxyContin, Vicodin, Xanax, Ativan, or Klonapin. The body adapts quickly to the introduction of such medications, increasing its tolerance to the drug’s effects. As tolerance ratchets up, so does the dosing. The individual notices that they no longer get the same results they had enjoyed earlier and will begin to take the medication more frequently.

Once the body has adapted to the increased dosing, it begins to rely on the drug to produce certain chemicals that once were produced by the brain. If the individual attempts to discontinue using the drug they will soon experience highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. The reflexive response to this is to revert back to using the drug in order to avoid these painful withdrawal symptoms, continuing the cycle of drug abuse and addiction.

How to Prepare for Rehab

When deciding to get professional help for a drug dependency or addiction, it is important to prepare mentally for the treatment process. Men are, by nature, not as introspective or connected to their emotions as females, but in order to get the most out of therapy, it is important to be open. Therapists will work with the male client to explore areas in their lives that may have fueled the extended use or abuse of a substance, so it helps to enter rehab with a certain openness to the process.

Prior to entering a residential program, it helps reduce stress if the client takes care of any loose ends at work or home. Rallying a strong support system is also helpful, as rehab is just the launching pad for long-term recovery. Another important consideration is to plan for continuing care options following rehab, such as planning for a period in sober living and understanding the need for ongoing outpatient therapy.

Detox and Withdrawal

Some people make the mistake of believing they can safely detox off of a powerful opioid or benzo on their own. This will not only fail as soon as the withdrawals begin to emerge but can also be dangerous. Unforeseen withdrawal symptoms can present serious health risks during detoxification.

For these reasons it is important for the client to enter a detox program, often provided at the residential rehab itself. A detox can provide:

  • Ongoing monitoring of vital signs and withdrawal symptoms
  • Trained detox specialists who can intervene promptly in an emergency
  • Medications to help ease withdrawal symptoms and increase comfort
  • Psychological support to guide the client safely through the detox process

Treatment at a Residential Drug Rehab for Men

After the detox and withdrawal is completed, the individual will be in a much better frame of mind to enter the active phase of treatment. Addiction treatment should be individualized to the specific needs of each client, ensuring the best rehab experience and outcome. Therapies are selected based on the individual client’s intake interview and assessment, designed to meet their unique treatment needs.

The therapies a client will engage in a rehab will include the following:

  • Individual talk therapy sessions
  • Group therapy sessions
  • Family therapy or couples therapy if applicable
  • Classes that teach about addiction and relapse prevention
  • Inspiring guest speakers
  • Recovery group meetings
  • Medication-assisted therapy if applicable
  • Experiential therapies, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation
  • Recreational therapies

Residential rehab programs can vary in duration, from one month up to six months or more depending on the acuity of the addiction or drug dependence. When rehab is approached with a positive, committed mindset it can result in enduring, life-changing effects.

Golf Drug Rehab is a Residential Drug Rehab for Men with Golf Therapy

Golf Drug Rehab is an elite men’s drug and alcohol rehab situated in South Orange County, California. The exquisite coastal setting provides the perfect backdrop for making life-changing commitments to recovery, providing a serene and health-restoring environment. Golf Drug Rehab blends evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, solution-focused therapy, and medication-assisted therapy with golf therapy. Offering three spectacular local golf courses to enjoy while in rehab gives clients a much-deserved respite from the hard work of rehab that doubles as a key recovery tool. For more information about the program, contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320

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Drugs and Alcohol at Work

Secretly Using Drugs and Alcohol at Work

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Drugs and Alcohol in The Workplace

Fans of the Mad Men series recall the depiction of the 1960s smoke-filled workplace as one where booze in the desk drawer was a given. Full on liquor cabinets were a staple in many office settings, and triple martini lunches were the norm. In the 80s, cocaine was part and parcel of the toolbox for high producing executives, as a quick sniff of the white stuff was just part of the dessert at lunchtime. People may assume that all that bad behavior was reined in long ago, with zero tolerance policies and drug testing becoming a workplace norm in recent years.

Not so, according to the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), which studied the use of drugs and alcohol at work. Apparently, 24% of workers surveyed admit having used alcohol during the workday at least once in the past year, and breathalyzer tests detected alcohol in 16% of patients injured at work. In addition, marijuana and cocaine were the most commonly used drugs by employees.

It appears that American workplaces are still rife with substance use. The use of drugs and alcohol at work is still a substantial problem, impacting productivity, employee health, and workplace safety. In fact, it has to be an ongoing issue since, according to the NCADD, 70% of the nearly 15 million adults in the U.S. who use illegal drugs are, indeed, employed.

drinking at work

In Which Industries Are Employees Using Drugs and Alcohol at Work?

When discussing which careers might contribute most to on the job substance abuse it might be assumed that high stress executive positions might top the list, but others, while represented in the data, surpass these careers for substance abuse. Also notable is the fact that careers such as first responders, emergency personnel, police, and fire are associated with high job stress and subsequent high rates of substance abuse, zero tolerance policies and random testing act as a deterrent for these individuals to use a substance while working.

On the contrary, according to the data provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the following industries have the highest levels of substance abuse among those employed full-time:

Illicit drug use by individuals employed full-time

  • Accommodations (hotel) and food services (19%)
  • Arts, entertainment, and recreation (13.7%)
  • Management of companies and enterprises (12.1%)
  • Information (11.7%)
  • Construction (11.6%)
  • Service industries, excluding public administration (11.2%)
  • Real estate (10.9%)
  • Retail (10.3%)
  • Professional, scientific, and technical services (9%)

Alcohol use by individuals employed full-time

  • Mining (17.5%)
  • Construction (16.5%)
  • Accommodations and food industry (11.8%)
  • Arts, entertainment, and recreation (11.5%)
  • Utilities (10.3%)
  • Wholesale trade (10.2%)
  • Management of companies and enterprises (9.9%)
  • Manufacturing (9.7%)
  • Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (9.4%)

Overall, employees in the accommodations and food industries had the highest rates of substance abuse, at nearly 17%.

What are the Signs of Substance Abuse in The Workplace?

When a coworker is struggling with a drug or alcohol use disorder there will usually be some signs of it on the job. It is very difficult to hide the telltale signs of a drug or alcohol problem from people you work alongside day in and day out. Eventually, certain red flags will be exhibited. These may include:

  • Declining job performance
  • Missing important meetings
  • Being consistently late to work
  • Becoming less social at work
  • Hand tremors
  • Decline in appearance and hygiene
  • Avoiding work related functions
  • Excessive absenteeism
  • Discussing financial problems at work
  • Facial bloating
  • Rapid weight gain or loss
  • Mood swings or moodiness
  • Manic spells of hyper-productivity (associated with stimulant abuse)

Coworkers who exhibit a cluster of these signs or symptoms of substance abuse are in need of help. An employee who enters treatment for a behavioral health disorder cannot be terminated for going to rehab and should be encouraged to get the help they need.

Effects of Using Drugs and Alcohol at Work

For the employee, the effects of using drugs and alcohol at work are fairly obvious. At some point, their behaviors that are the result of the substance abuse will lead to their termination from the position. For the company itself, workplace substance abuse can have substantial negative effects.

The impact of drug and alcohol abuse at work includes:

  • Potential injury at work due to decreased motor coordination, alertness, or judgment, leading to expensive worker’s compensation claims and increases in premiums
  • Aggravated assault
  • Sexual harassment, abuse, or assault
  • Distribution or sales of illicit drugs or alcohol at work
  • Reduced productivity
  • Psychological effects of substance abuse impacting coworkers
  • Theft or embezzlement to finance a drug or alcohol habit
  • Reduced morale among staff
  • Cost of having to train a replacement employee if termination results

The cost to the employer and the overall work environment is high when a coworker is engaging in substance abuse either secretly while at work, or arriving to work high, drunk, or hungover.

Treatment for Substance Abuse and Addiction

Employees who are struggling with a substance use disorder need help. Often the human resources department will have an in-house response to employees with a drug or alcohol problem, guiding them toward receiving the treatment they need and/or issuing them leave to go to an inpatient program.

Once in outpatient or inpatient rehab, the individual will receive a comprehensive treatment protocol that includes detoxification, if necessary, individual therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, addiction education classes, medication assisted treatment, if warranted, and relapse prevention planning. In addition, many rehabs include a 12-step or similar recovery group for additional peer support.

Golf Drug Rehab Leading Orange County Addiction Treatment Provider

Golf Drug Rehab is an upscale addiction recovery center located in South Orange County, California. The program assists individuals who have been unable to curb substance use within the workplace and who seek recovery from drug or alcohol abuse. Utilizing the most current evidence-based treatment elements, combined with recreational golf therapy, Golf Drug Rehab blends therapy with outdoor activity for the best treatment outcomes. For more information about the program, please contact Golf Drug Rehab today at (877) 958-5320

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