Economic downturn leads to alcohol consumption, substance abuse and mental health issues

A number of research studies and statistical data confirm what common sense tells us—there is a relationship between economic downturns and increases in human suffering. Study after study finds that there are increases in the number of personal problems experienced by individuals, couples and families whenever a “recession” is officially recognized.

Increases in alcohol or drug-related and mental health problems seem obvious for workers who lose their jobs. However, in addition to unemployed workers and their families, those who keep their jobs in times of economic decline also suffer more from alcohol, drug and mental health problems.

Typical problems include:

* Binge drinking

* Stress

* Depression

* Anger

* Drug abuse

* Anxiety

* Marital problems

* Family problems

Given the current economic conditions in our country and the world, many experts anticipate an increase in the number of people who could benefit from mental health and substance abuse treatment. They point to a study done at Swarthmore College that found that the prevalence of binge drinking increased strongly during economic downturns, even among those who remained employed.

It is possible that the increase in binge drinking is attributable to several factors. Researchers suggest that those who remain employed do so under extreme stress. Workers report fear of losing their job due to layoff as the number one reason for worries. That, they say, leads to their binge drinking.

The second most mentioned reason was decreased income due to loss of income because of less hours worked, whether overtime or otherwise. Others point to increases in workload or responsibilities because of the decrease in their company’s workforce after layoffs. Having a spouse laid off from work was also among the most cited stressors for binge drinkers.

Similar to binge drinking, substance abuse sometimes increases or begins when the strains of an economic downturn hit home. The amount of money spent on illegal drugs often compounds the problem. Those who can no longer afford the cost of illegal drugs sometimes turn to alcohol, which further complicates matters.

In addition to alcohol and drug abuse, the number of workers who report mental health problems— particularly depression, anxiety, marital and family problems—inevitably increases when the economy slows down.

TAP can help

TAP urges Teamsters, family members, and employers to be aware of the increased likelihood that workers and their family members may be in need of our services.

If you know any member, co-worker or family member who could use some help dealing with an alcohol. drug or other personal problem, please have them call TAP at 510-562-3600.

TAP will gladly send one of its counselors to any Teamster workplace which is covered through a TAP-participating Trust Fund to explain that employee assistance services are available.