The phrase, “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere!”, has become a common reference to the culturally normalized routine of drinking at the end of the workday. While alcohol is often used to socialize in a professional setting, it is even more commonly thought of as a way to unwind from the pressures and stress of work. Unfortunately, this habit often leads to alcohol abuse and addiction, which will not only damage your career, but can cause serious harm to you and your family. Finding a way to cope with work stress without the dangerous consequences of alcohol abuse can help you avoid the many health issues associated with high stress levels, while also preventing a lifelong battle with addiction. One way to begin to manage your stress at work is to first focus on creating a calm and healthy morning routine. All too often we rush through our mornings trying to get ready for work, dress and feed the kids, and get through morning traffic. We forget to eat a healthy breakfast, go on a morning run, or even just wake up a bit earlier so we aren’t constantly running late. With a bit of preparation, we can eliminate the morning chaos and arrive at work feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Another often overlooked aspect of staying calm and positive in the workplace is making sure you are physically comfortable. Workplace pain is very common and can often be easily remedied with a few changes. If you are on your feet a lot at work, invest in comfortable, supportive shoes. If you sit all day, ask human resources what they can do to help make your desk area as ergonomic as possible. Additionally, you can promote physical well-being while also improving mental clarity by taking a walk outdoors during your lunch break. Soaking in some sun while raising your heartrate can lesson symptoms of depression and give you the energy boost you need to get through the rest of your day.
If you find yourself turning to alcohol to manage work stress, know that there is a better way. A quality treatment center can give you the tools you need to find peace and sobriety. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.