Alcohol Awareness Week is a national campaign aimed at encouraging conversations about alcohol harm and the wider impact it can have on our health, relationships, and working lives. For employers, it’s a valuable opportunity to reflect on how alcohol misuse may be affecting their workforce and what support structures are in place to help.
At Acorn Occupational Health, we work closely with organisations across the UK to identify and support employees who may be struggling with alcohol dependency in the workplace. Through a combination of expert occupational health services and compassionate, confidential counselling, we help businesses protect the health and wellbeing of their teams.
The Physical and Emotional Toll of Alcohol Misuse
In our recent social media posts, we explored both the physical and mental health consequences of excessive alcohol use. To recap:
- Physical effects can include liver damage, high blood pressure, weakened immunity, disrupted sleep, digestive problems, and increased cancer risk. These effects often go unnoticed until serious health issues arise, which can lead to extended time off work or long-term ill health.
- Mental health impacts are equally significant. Alcohol is a known depressant and can exacerbate or mask underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Dependency can lead to isolation, shame, and a decline in motivation, focus, and workplace performance.
Recognising these signs early is key – and this is where employers have a critical role to play.
How Acorn Can Support Employers and Employees
Our services are designed to empower businesses to respond proactively and responsibly to alcohol-related concerns:
If you’re concerned about an employee’s wellbeing or performance, our management referral process enables you to get a professional occupational health opinion. We’ll assess the individual, explore whether alcohol misuse could be a contributing factor, and offer guidance on next steps.
Confidential Counselling
We offer access to counselling for employees who may be struggling with personal or work-related issues, including substance misuse. Sometimes, simply having someone to talk to can open the door to deeper change.
Supporting a Culture of Openness and Understanding
Addressing alcohol dependency in the workplace requires sensitivity and awareness. Creating a supportive environment where employees feel safe to seek help, without fear of judgement, can make a big difference.
Employers should be proactive in:
- Promoting awareness during campaigns like Alcohol Awareness Week
- Sharing resources with staff
- Offering regular training to managers on how to spot signs of substance misuse
- Encouraging a culture where it’s OK to ask for help
Helpful Resources to Share with Your Team
If you’re looking for trusted support options to signpost employees to, here are some helpful organisations:
- Alcohol Change UK – Organisers of Alcohol Awareness Week. Resources, factsheets, and a free DrinkCoach app: https://alcoholchange.org.uk
- Drinkline – Free, confidential helpline: 0300 123 1110
- NHS Alcohol Support – Tools and advice: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/
- SMART Recovery – Support groups for people overcoming addiction: https://smartrecovery.org.uk
- Adfam – Help for families affected by alcohol or drugs: https://www.adfam.org.uk
Alcohol Awareness Week is a timely reminder that no one is immune to the effects of alcohol. By creating space for honest conversations and providing access to expert help, employers can make a meaningful difference.
If you’d like to learn more about how Acorn can support your employees through management referrals or counselling, please get in touch:
📧 website@acornoh.co.uk
📞 01260 27797