Are Employees Really Drinking Alcohol While Working From Home?

Working from home provides many benefits to employees. Sadly, some employees take advantage of this autonomy and mix work with pleasure, knowing that no one from the office can see, hear, or smell them. Drinking alcohol while working from home is more common than it should be, and here’s what you can do about it.

Cheers to a productive day! Nothing wrong with that, right? You labored the necessary hours and are now enjoying a drink well-earned. But what if your employees or coworkers crack open a bottle a few hours earlier? 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a survey by Protecting.co.uk showed that 83% of people admitted to drinking alcohol while working from home more than two times a week. For many people, that became a habit that stuck with them. 

A more recent study showed that 4.4% of remote workers admit to getting drunk weekly while working from home. Remember that this is a topic many people wouldn’t admit to. In reality, I think this percentage is at least doubled. 

What Makes Some Employees Want to Drink Alcohol While Working From Home?

Employees may choose to drink alcohol while working from home for various reasons. The lack of direct supervision, increased autonomy, and reduced social interactions may contribute to a more relaxed environment, making it easier for some individuals to justify or engage in alcohol consumption. 

Additionally, the blurred boundaries between work and personal life in a home setting might lead to stress, and some may turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. The absence of immediate consequences and the perception of increased privacy could also influence this behavior. 

Individuals must maintain a healthy work-life balance and seek more beneficial coping mechanisms for stress while working remotely.

What Are the Impacts of Drinking Alcohol While Working From Home?

Drinking alcohol while working from home can have various impacts, both on an individual’s well-being and job performance. Some potential consequences include:

• Impaired Cognitive Function: Alcohol consumption can impair cognitive function, leading to decreased concentration, memory lapses, and difficulty making decisions. This can negatively impact the quality of work.
• Reduced Productivity: Alcohol can decrease productivity due to impaired focus and attention. Tasks may take longer to complete, and the overall efficiency of work may suffer.
• Poor Decision-Making: Impaired judgment from alcohol use can lead to poor decision-making, affecting work-related choices and potentially damaging professional relationships.
• Increased Risk of Errors: Alcohol can impair coordination and motor skills, increasing the likelihood of making mistakes or errors in work. This is particularly concerning in roles that require precision and attention to detail.
• Negative Impact on Health: Regular alcohol consumption can have long-term health consequences, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and mental health problems. Poor health can, in turn, impact work performance.
• Strained Professional Relationships: Changes in behavior or attitude resulting from alcohol use can strain relationships with colleagues, supervisors, or clients, affecting teamwork and collaboration.
• Violation of Company Policies: Many workplaces have policies regarding alcohol consumption during work hours, even when working remotely. Engaging in such behavior may lead to disciplinary actions or job termination.
• Increased Stress and Anxiety: While some individuals may turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism, it can exacerbate stress and anxiety in the long run. This can create a cycle of using alcohol to manage emotions, further impacting job performance.
• Legal Consequences: In some jurisdictions, drinking alcohol during work hours may have legal implications, especially if it leads to impaired driving or other legal issues.

It’s essential for individuals to be aware of the potential consequences of alcohol consumption during work hours and to seek healthier coping mechanisms for stress and challenges. Employers can play a role in promoting a supportive work environment and providing resources for employees facing difficulties.

7 Signs an Employee May Be Drinking Alcohol While Working From Home

1. Changes in Behavior: Sudden shifts in behavior, such as increased irritability, mood swings, or inconsistent work performance, may indicate alcohol use.
2. Inconsistent Communication: Frequent typos, slurred speech during virtual meetings, or difficulty articulating thoughts could be signs of impairment.
3. Poor Time Management: Consistent missed deadlines, unexplained delays, or a noticeable decline in productivity might suggest that an employee is struggling with alcohol-related issues.
4. Isolation: A significant increase in social withdrawal, reluctance to engage in team activities, or reduced communication with colleagues might signal a problem.
5. Physical Signs: Bloodshot eyes, lethargy, or changes in personal grooming habits could be indicative of alcohol use.
6. Inconsistent Work Hours: Frequent absences during regular work hours or irregular work patterns may suggest an employee is struggling to balance work responsibilities with alcohol consumption.
7. Decline in Work Quality: Noticeable drops in the quality of work, missed details, or uncharacteristic mistakes might be linked to alcohol use affecting cognitive abilities.

What to Do if You Suspect an Employee Is Drinking Alcohol While Working From Home

It’s important to approach such situations with empathy and sensitivity, considering various factors that could contribute to changes in behavior. 

Gather information and check company policies

Before taking any action, collect concrete evidence to support your suspicions. This might include observing consistent behavioral changes, performance issues, or direct signs during virtual meetings. Review your company’s policies on substance abuse and remote work to ensure you understand the guidelines and procedures.

Schedule a Private Conversation

Approach the employee privately and express your concerns in a non-confrontational manner. Communicate that your primary concern is their well-being and job performance. Offer support and inquire if there are any challenges they are facing that might be affecting their work.

Allow the employee to share their perspective. There may be personal or work-related issues contributing to their behavior. If applicable, remind the employee of the company’s policies regarding substance abuse during work hours, whether in the office or remotely.

Keep a record of the conversation, noting the concerns discussed, any agreements made, and the steps planned for improvement.

Establish Clear Expectations

Communicate your expectations regarding professional behavior during work hours and the impact of alcohol consumption on job performance. Monitor the employee’s performance and behavior over time. Provide constructive feedback and support as needed.

Involve HR if Necessary

If the issue persists or there are severe performance issues, involve human resources to ensure compliance with company policies and explore appropriate interventions.

Encourage Professional Help

If the issue persists or the employee acknowledges a problem, encourage them to seek professional help through employee assistance programs, counseling services, or other resources.