Drug abuse has risen quite significantly in recent years, affecting a much wider range of people and, as a result, industries that people are working in. However, long has there been certain industries in particular where drug abuse is a systematic problem.
Visit any drug rehab across the country, from Bradford to Bournemouth, Aberdeen to Abersoch and you’ll find the stresses of work are often a key cause behind drug abuse, but in what industries are you likely to find that from most?
Construction and Manual Labour
Construction and manual labour roles have one of the highest rates of addiction, particularly when it comes to the likes of alcohol and drug misuse. There are long hours involved, high stress and a demanding physical nature, while injuries can also be common.
This can lead to people turning to the likes of substances such as alcohol, opioids and stimulants almost as pain relief, while there’s also a high portion of people that struggle with prescription painkiller addiction compared to other industries too.
What’s more, there’s also still a rather bloke-ish culture around construction and other trade roles, where there’s an expectation to have a few pints in the pub after work. Something that’s left other industries many years ago.
Hospitality and Catering
Perhaps the industries that are most commonly associated with drug abuse, there are few that are such high-stress and fast paced, combined with such long hours for little reward too.
Hospitality is considered the most stressful industry as it comes with so many demands, from having to ensure service is of a high standard, it’s efficient, while also having to socialise and engage with both customers and colleagues.
Many turn to drugs, particularly cocaine and amphetamines in order to manage long hours and combat fatigue. What’s more, alcohol and drugs are also prominant within the surroundings, which makes them readily available, which can be a big factor in driving problematic relationships with the substances.
Transportation and Logistics
The transportation and logistics industries, particularly those involving long-distance driving, have a higher prevalence of substance misuse. Long-haul drivers, for example, often face intense isolation, fatigue, and irregular sleep patterns, which can lead some to misuse substances like stimulants to stay awake and alert on the road. Truck drivers, delivery personnel, and even those working in shipping often work long hours alone, away from their families, making them more susceptible to loneliness and stress-related substance use.
Drug use in this sector can have devastating consequences. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose significant risks to both themselves and others on the road. Many companies now have strict drug testing policies to help combat this issue, but the prevalence of addiction remains a concern.
Healthcare and Social Assistance
It may come as a surprise, but healthcare professionals are not immune to addiction. In fact, due to their easy access to prescription medications and the high-stress environment they work in, some healthcare workers are at a higher risk of substance misuse. Doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare providers often deal with emotional trauma, long hours, and the pressure of life-and-death situations on a regular basis.
Some healthcare workers may misuse prescription drugs, particularly painkillers, sedatives, or anti-anxiety medications, either to cope with the stress of their jobs or as a way to manage their own mental health issues. The stigma attached to addiction within the healthcare profession can make it difficult for individuals to seek help, fearing repercussions for their career.
Entertainment and Media
The entertainment and media industries are often associated with a culture of excess, where drug and alcohol use can be more socially accepted. This industry is known for its irregular working hours, high levels of stress, and frequent networking events, where drinking and drug use may be common.
In particular, musicians, actors, and others in the performing arts may feel the pressure to maintain a certain image or meet the demands of a fast-paced, high-pressure lifestyle. Creative individuals may also turn to substances as a way to enhance their creativity or cope with the pressures of fame, making them more susceptible to addiction.
