Alcohol Use Disorders in work Place Dr Mary Wangari Kuria MBChB, Mmed & PhD in Psychiatry (UON) Chairman and Senior Lecturer University of Nairobi

Objectives Prevalence of AUD at work place Stages Prevention intervention Conclusion

Prevalence of alcohol use disorders at workplace Most people with alcohol problems work the majority work full time. Among adults who currently have the alcohol dependence, 75% work (59% work full-time and 16% work part time).

Prevalence An even higher workforce participation rate is found among adults who currently have alcohol abuse disorders 82% are employed (66% work full-time and 16% work part-time).

Stages of alcohol use 1. No Use This is either by ; choice due to never having the chance to use, having a belief or value against using, or having a previously bad experience Majorities of workers are in this category

2. Experimental Use This the Novel (new) Experience The person tries the alcohol once or twice to experience the effects. The decision to continue using the alcohol or not depends upon the person's subjective experience. they may use because they are curious, their friends are using, or it is available to them.

3. Social Use Alcohol use ‘Adds to Life ‘- becomes Misuse The person uses the alcohol occasionally, and can readily control the use of the alcohol. Their Major Life Areas are not affected. No emotional pain results from the alcohol use.

Social use During this stage the person's tolerance to the drug and they may develop a pattern of using such as every weekend, or every day after school. Person has more reason for social gatherings which revolve around the alcohol use. A few negative consequences from using alcohol such as a hangover, or missing an appointment, school or work Person tries to set a few self-imposed rules for using such as only using on weekends, only using at certain times, or only using a certain amount.

4. Harmfully Involved Alcohol use “Becomes Life” - Compulsive use The person uses the alcohol regularly and frequently, uses more of the alcohol over a longer period of time, makes attempts to control use of the alcohol but has difficulty doing so, some Major Life Areas are affected, alcohol use continues despite the appearance of negative alcohol use patterns & consequences use of the alcohol causes emotional pain, experiences withdrawal symptoms, tolerance begins to increase, The person rationalizes alcohol use Person denies the fact that alcohol is causing problems, begins to make promises to self and others about quitting or cutting down. The person is begins to feel that they have less control over their alcohol use..

5. Dependent Substance abuse “Takes over Life” The person (uses the alcohol very regularly and very frequently, feels they have lost control over the use of the alcohol most Major Life Areas are affected, alcohol use patterns and consequences are unknown and unpredictable, strong emotional pain results from continued use of the alcohol, frequent negative effects of alcohol use and clear signs of withdrawal when alcohol use is stopped, person is worried about the use of the alcohol

Effects of alcohol use increased accidents health care costs Absenteeism lost productivity Change in behavior Failure to honor promises Criminal Offences HIV/AIDS Negative social economic effects

Signs of alcohol use disorders Irresponsibility Change of priorities Need for excessive money Secretive behavior Complaints by the supervisors Stealing Unexplained injuries

Prevention of alcohol use disorders in work place Integrate AUD messages in health education strategies. Include content about alcohol use disorders in; company newsletters on the intranet other regular employee communication platforms.

Prevention Regular screening is important Unavailability of alcohol place Avail Stress burnout management Alcohol free leisure centres and parties

Intervention alcohol problems can be effectively and inexpensively treated. Early intervention is important Inform your employees of the availability of resources for staying healthy and productive. Ensure confidentially Insurance cover for persons with AUDs is crucial

Conclusion Alcohol use disorders can be prevented and treated The employer has a role in preventing and treating AUDs in their employees