The hospitality industy has long been known for its high stress, high intensity environment, and as a result alcohol and drugs are prominent among workers. Studies have shown that as many as one in five hospitality workers have used illicit drugs in the past month, while 79% of staff in the industry claim to have seen drug use in work.
That’s a staggering amount and, combined with the number of hospitality workers in private drug treatment, certanly suggests that there are significant problems with substances within the industry. But why exactly is it so bad?
High-Pressure, Fast-Paced Work Environment
First and foremost, the very nature of the hospitality industry is that it’s fast-paced and highly pressured. Workers have to deal with a large number of customers at a time and across an evening, while also ensuring that orders and requests are completed accurately and within an appropriate time frame. That all needs to be completed while being polite, friendly and understanding. Even reading that sounds exhausting and stressful.
It’s that pressure that can lead many to deal with such stresses by turning to alcohol or drugs as a way to either unwind or cope with the demands of the job. Cocaine and amphetamine use are especially common, used to try and maintain energy and focus during shifts, while alcohol is commonly used to unwind.
Long and Irregular Hours
Shift patterns and working hours can be long, irregular and unpredictable which can have a huge impact on both physical and mental wellbeing of those working in hospitality.
Shifts often go late into the night or early hours of the morning, or can potentially start incredibly early in the morning and staff, particularly at present where there’s a shortage in staff in the industry, can work for days or weeks on end without a break.
This disruption and being unable to stick to normal routines and sleeping patterns can lead to exhaustion, burnout and being unable to live a balanced and healthy lifestyle. That can significantly increase the risk of a dependency to substances.
Easy Access to Alcohol and Drugs
In many areas of the hospitality industry, alcohol and, in some cases, drugs are easily accessible. Bartenders, waitstaff, and other employees in pubs and restaurants are surrounded by alcohol during their shifts, often with opportunities to drink after work or even while on duty in some establishments.
This normalisation of drinking as part of the job can blur the lines between social drinking and problematic alcohol consumption.
The late-night hours and social environment can also make the hospitality industry susceptible to drug use. In some workplaces, the culture of partying after shifts or socialising with customers can lead to recreational drug use. The combination of easy access and social pressure can result in substance misuse becoming ingrained in the work culture.
Low Pay and Job Insecurity
Many jobs in the hospitality industry are known for low wages and a lack of job security. Whether it’s seasonal work, part-time roles, or positions with high turnover, employees in the sector often face financial instability and job-related stress. The stress of living paycheck to paycheck, combined with the physical demands of the job, can leave workers feeling anxious and uncertain about their future.
Substances like alcohol and drugs can provide a temporary escape from these financial worries, helping workers to cope with the emotional strain. However, this reliance on substances to deal with stress can quickly become habitual, particularly if employees feel trapped in a cycle of low-paying jobs and financial instability. The lack of support and financial security can exacerbate the problem, making it difficult for workers to seek help.
A Social Culture of Substance Use
The hospitality industry often fosters a social culture where substance use is normalised, if not actively encouraged. After long and stressful shifts, it’s common for workers to unwind together over drinks, with alcohol being a central part of socialising. In some cases, this after-work drinking culture can escalate into regular heavy drinking or drug use, as socialising becomes intertwined with substance consumption.
This social aspect of hospitality can make it harder for individuals to avoid drinking or using drugs, even if they don’t want to. The pressure to fit in with colleagues or participate in social activities can push some employees towards substance misuse. Over time, the normalisation of this behaviour within the workplace can contribute to an industry-wide problem, where substance abuse is seen as part of the job rather than a serious health concern.
