In the last few years, we’ve seen an increase in media coverage of professionals who struggle with substance abuse. We know from personal experience that anyone can fall victim to drug addiction regardless of their profession or socioeconomic status. However, some professions carry a higher potential risk for substance abuse than others.
Professions at High Risk for Substance Abuse
Some jobs have a higher risk of substance abuse than others. The reasons for this are numerous and often linked to unspoken pressures within specific industries, as well as the challenges faced by workers in those fields on a daily basis.
The majority of people in high-risk professions don’t develop problems with substance abuse. However, if you feel you might be heading down a dangerous path or know someone who might need help breaking free from drugs, read on for more information on some of the most at-risk professions and how you can seek support if needed.
Hospitality
Those who work in the hospitality and food service industry have the highest rates of drug and alcohol abuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) in the entire employment sector. Employees in the hospitality field are subject to a high-stress work environment, low wages, and difficult hours. The need to “relax” after a shift can lead to the heavy use of substances that can range from marijuana to opiates.
Studies have found that workers in the hospitality and food service industry have the highest ranking in SUDs. Beyond illicit drug abuse, it has been shown that four out of five employees in restaurants demonstrate an abusive relationship with alcohol.
Healthcare Workers
Doctors and other healthcare providers who work in the emergency department (ED) frequently encounter high-pressure situations as a routine part of their job: seeking to save lives. While saving lives is a routine part of their job, doctors and other healthcare professionals frequently encounter stressful and pressurized situations, particularly in the ED hospital setting. Prescription drugs are a major contributing factor to substance abuse because they are so easily accessible.
Entertainers and Musicians
It seems like every month, a well-known musician, actor, or some other kind of celebrity dies of a drug overdose. Substance abuse has always appeared to go hand-in-hand with creativity and talent. It seems all too commonplace that those who work in the entertainment industry are often afflicted with substance abuse issues. The high stress, peer pressure, and unpredictability of the job are often too demanding to bear without a potential “escape” with drugs or alcohol.
Other Professions at Risk for Substance Abuse
These are just a few of the many professions that seem to be more likely to seek out substances to cope with the demands of their jobs. In addition to the few listed above, professionals in construction, law enforcement, management, and even education are prone to unhealthy relationships with drugs or alcohol.
Substance abuse can affect anyone at any time; it doesn’t play any favorites in life. Certain professions may create an ideal environment for substance use disorder (SUD) to thrive, but working in a different field doesn’t make anyone immune. If you find yourself struggling with your job and using drugs or alcohol to escape or “cope,” then now is the time to get professional help. There are better ways to live your life. Call The Guest House at (855) 483-7800 for treatment options.