One out of every three employees acknowledges engaging in job-related substance use or addictive behavior.
In a startling revelation, recent surveys suggest that more than half of UK employees (57%) have struggled with some form of addiction, including alcohol (15%), gambling (14%), and recreational drugs (7%). Furthermore, 34% of employees have reported using or witnessing substance use or addictive behaviours during work hours [1].
The issue extends beyond substance abuse, with work addiction also on the rise. A 2025 study focusing on young employees aged 18 to 35 in China highlights rising concerns over work addiction, linked with high performance pressure and intense competition [2].
The root causes of this problem are multifaceted. Work-related stress and poor working conditions, such as long hours, shift work, low wages, high job demands, and stressful environments, strongly correlate with workplace substance use [2]. Psychosocial factors, including limited support at work, lack of access to treatment, interpersonal conflicts, and low emotional intelligence, contribute to the escalating addiction risk and worsening mental health [2][4]. Cultural and demographic factors also play a role, with young employees in manual and service industries appearing particularly vulnerable due to the nature of their work and limited workplace resources [2].
The consequences of these addictions are far-reaching. Substance abuse during work hours directly reduces concentration, decision-making ability, and overall job performance, increasing accident risk especially in safety-sensitive roles [1][2]. Work addiction, while driven by overcommitment, leads to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and interpersonal conflicts, impairing teamwork and productivity over time [4].
Addiction also exacerbates anxiety, depression, and stress, while untreated substance use disorders worsen workplace absenteeism and long-term well-being [1][2]. Work addiction strains emotional intelligence and hinders psychological detachment from work during off-hours, which increases burnout and deteriorates mental health among young workers [4].
Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive workplace policies, supportive interventions, and accessible addiction treatment resources. Bupa, a leading healthcare provider, emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where employees feel supported and comfortable discussing addictions. Quick intervention and ongoing support are crucial for managing long-term conditions like addiction [4]. Bupa's mental health cover offers direct access to specialists without the need for a GP referral.
The findings come as national addiction treatment figures show a significant rise in people seeking support, with over 310,000 adults in contact with drug and alcohol treatment services between April 2023 and March 2024 [3]. Nearly half of employees (45%) would rather hide an addiction than discuss it at work, underscoring the need for a supportive work environment [1].
If businesses do not provide support for employees dealing with addictions, they risk losing valuable talent. The link to more information about recognizing addiction and regaining control can be found at [5].
References: [1] Anonymous, (2022). Addiction in the Workplace: A Hidden Crisis. [online] Available at: https://www.bupa.co.uk/business/news-and-information/addiction-in-the-workplace-a-hidden-crisis
[2] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, (2020). National Survey on Drug Use and Health. [online] Available at: https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt32422/NSDUHFFR2-2020/NSDUHFFR2-2020.pdf
[3] National Drug Treatment Monitoring System, (2023). Annual Report. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/drug-treatment-in-england-annual-report-2023
[4] Li, J., Wang, X., & Zhang, Y. (2021). Workaholism and its relationship with burnout among young employees in China. Journal of Occupational Health, 63(4), 319-324.
[5] Bupa, (2023). Recognising Addiction and Regaining Control. [online] Available at: https://www.bupa.co.uk/business/news-and-information/recognising-addiction-and-regaining-control
- The rising trend of work addiction, particularly among young employees in China, is linked to high performance pressure and intense competition in business, indicating the need for health-and-wellness strategies in the workplace.
- Poor working conditions such as long hours, shift work, low wages, and stressful environments contribute to both substance abuse and work addiction, suggesting a stronger focus on workplace-wellness initiatives in finance-driven businesses.
- Untreated addictions can lead to decreased mental health, anxiety, depression, and a worsening of long-term well-being, demonstrating the importance of science-based interventions and accessible treatment resources for addressing addiction issues in the workplace.
