The alcohol crisis quietly hitting high-stress, “high-status” workers
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Despite an overall decline in alcohol use in the US, certain high-stress professions like healthcare workers are experiencing high rates of alcohol misuse. This can have serious consequences, including poorer work performance and worse patient outcomes.
Alcohol misuse is a growing concern among high-stress, 'high-status' workers, particularly in the healthcare industry. A 2023 global metaanalysis found that one in five healthcare professionals drink hazardously and engage in binge drinking. In the US, a 2015 study found that 13% of male physicians and 21% of female physicians met the criteria for alcohol misuse. The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the rise in alcohol abuse among healthcare providers, with lingering trauma and stress leading to increased substance use. Alcohol misuse by healthcare workers is associated with poorer work performance and worse patient outcomes. Addressing this issue is challenging due to persistent stigmas surrounding addiction among 'high-status' professionals.
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