Signs of Alcoholism at Work
1. Attendance
Frequent, unexplained absences from work may be due to an alcohol problem. This person may be frequently late, or be absent from his or her station of duty for long periods of time. You may even begin to pick up on patterns of absences, like every Friday, or after pay day.
2. Performance
Poor performance is a strong indicator of some type of problem. Sloppy work, missed deadlines, or excessive excuses could be a sign of depression, anxiety, or an alcohol issue.
3. Relationships
Alcoholism tends to isolate the individual. If this person was once close friends with co-workers, and no longer communicates with them, that is a red flag. This could be due to a change in personality or temper.
4. Behavior
How does this person act at work? Do they sleep on the job? Do they seem drunk? Are they avoiding supervisors? Take note if this person’s behavior seems out of the ordinary.
5. Appearance
This person may seem disheveled or unsteady at work. Alcohol has a potent smell, which lingers on the breath. He or she may be using breath mints excessively to try and mask the smell. These warning signs are not fool proof, or all encompassing. They serve as red flags, signaling some sort of deeper issue. If you or someone you know recognizes these signs in their workplace and wants professional advice.