Alcohol and Work
A Perfect Time to Examine your Relationship with Drink
Alcohol Awareness Week (7–13th July) is an important opportunity to reflect on how alcohol and the workplace connect. This year’s theme – Alcohol and Work – shines a light on the everyday impact of drinking habits on professional life, health and workplace culture.
From after-work drinks to stressful deadlines, many working environments shape our drinking choices more than we might realise. Understanding this link helps create a more open and supportive culture around wellbeing, where employees feel confident in making informed decisions.
Exploring alcohol and working life
For many, alcohol becomes part of a routine – a way to unwind, celebrate or connect with others. Work stress, social pressure or changes in role can all play a part in shaping those habits.
However, a significant portion of the population in the UK drink at levels which could have an impact on their health: 32% of men, and 15% of women. Furthermore, alcohol-related conditions cost the NHS an enormous amount of money: in 2023/24, there were more than 1,000,000 hospital admissions where the primary or secondary diagnosis was related to alcohol.
Sleep disruption, low energy, difficulty concentrating and feeling overwhelmed can all be linked to alcohol. By creating the space to talk about it and be honest about alcohol, people can start to better understand their relationship with drinking.
How alcohol shows up in the workplace
| Scenario | How it influences alcohol use |
| Socials and networking | Alcohol is often central to networking, socialising, and celebrations, which can create pressure or feel exclusive to those who don’t drink. |
| Stress and burnout | Some use alcohol to relax after a tough day, which can become a frequent habit under long-term pressure. |
| Job transitions | Promotions, restructuring or new challenges can all influence drinking patterns during times of uncertainty. |
It’s also important to recognise that alcohol is viewed differently across cultures, religions and personal values. While some may see drinking as a social norm, others may choose to avoid alcohol entirely for cultural, spiritual or health-related reasons.
Creating a respectful and inclusive workplace means being mindful of these differences and encouraging open, judgement-free conversations. If someone has concerns about their relationship with alcohol – or simply wants to talk about any pressures they may be feeling – they should be supported to speak with someone they trust, whether that’s a colleague, line manager or wellbeing adviser.
Ways to raise awareness at work
- Open the conversation – Share resources, start a team discussion or invite a speaker to provide insight and support.
- Keep socials inclusive – Offer quality alcohol-free options at events, and create space for everyone to take part comfortably.
- Highlight wellbeing support – Make sure employees know how to access internal support or signposting to external services.
- Lead by example – Managers and team leaders can model healthy behaviours and normalise balance and moderation.
- Introduce a positive challenge – Try a “mindful drinking” or “midweek dry” initiative to encourage reflection and connection.
These steps encourage a culture where everyone feels included and supported – regardless of personal choices.
Creating a healthier workplace culture
This year’s Alcohol Awareness Week is a chance to strengthen your approach to wellbeing and highlight the everyday ways that workplace culture influences behaviour. When we offer education, choice and support, we empower people to build healthier routines that benefit both their personal life and working performance.
Use this week to promote a balanced, inclusive and wellbeing-focused environment – one where everyone feels confident in making the choices that work for them.