The relationship between work and alcohol consumption may be more complex than commonly assumed. A major new study has found that while personal and social factors remain the strongest predictors of harmful drinking, certain workplace conditions significantly increase the risk of dangerous alcohol use—placing renewed responsibility on employers to intervene.
Researchers from Flinders University analysed data from more than 26,000 employed Australians, uncovering clear links between working patterns and alcohol consumption. The findings suggest that long hours, shift work, and unmet employment expectations can quietly shape drinking habits, often in ways that go unnoticed until they become harmful.
Work Stress Isn’t the Whole Story
The research challenges a popular assumption: that workplace stress alone is the primary driver of excessive drinking.
“We often think of workplace stress as one of the main drivers of excessive drinking, but our research shows that sociodemographic and health factors are even more important,” said Dr Gianluca Di Censo, lead author of the study from Flinders’ College of Medicine and Public Health and the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA).
However, Dr Di Censo stressed that work conditions still matter.
“That said, certain work conditions do increase risk, and understanding these patterns is vital for designing effective ways in which to help those who are indulging in high-risk drinking,” he said.
Long Hours and Shift Work Raise Red Flags
One of the clearest findings was the impact of long working hours. Employees working more than 40 hours a week were significantly more likely to drink at harmful levels across the week, suggesting that fatigue, stress, and limited recovery time may contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Shift workers emerged as another high-risk group. While they were not necessarily drinking more frequently, they were far more likely to engage in one-off high-risk drinking episodes, commonly known as binge drinking.
Dr Di Censo noted that persistent myths around alcohol—particularly among shift workers—remain a concern.
“Many people still believe alcohol helps with sleep, which is especially common among those working irregular hours,” he said. “In reality, alcohol disrupts sleep quality and recovery.”
The study also found that employees who wanted to work more hours—rather than fewer—had a higher likelihood of risky drinking behaviours.
“We believe that wanting more work hours may reflect underlying factors such as financial stress, workaholism, or other traits that predispose individuals to high-risk drinking patterns,” Dr Di Censo explained. “This aligns closely with previous research.”
Job Satisfaction Less Important Than Expected
Surprisingly, job satisfaction itself was not strongly linked to drinking behaviour. This suggests that structural and lifestyle factors may matter more than whether someone enjoys their job.
Researchers say this challenges the idea that unhappy workers drink more, pointing instead to systemic issues such as schedules, income pressure, and physical demands.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Beyond workplace conditions, the study revealed stark differences based on age, gender, and lifestyle.
Young workers aged 18 to 29 were nearly eight times more likely to engage in binge drinking compared to older employees. Men were significantly more likely than women to drink at harmful levels.
The strongest modifiable risk factor identified was smoking. Smokers were almost three times more likely to drink excessively.
“This tells us that prevention and intervention programs shouldn’t just focus on alcohol in isolation,” Dr Di Censo said. “Programs that address multiple health behaviours—like smoking and drinking together—are likely to be far more effective.”
Employers Have a Role to Play
Co-author Dr Kirrilly Thompson, also from Flinders’ College of Medicine and Public Health and NCETA, said the findings carry clear implications for employers.
“Workplaces can’t ignore this issue,” she said. “Long hours and shift work are linked to harmful drinking patterns, and myths like ‘alcohol helps you sleep’ persist among shift workers.”
She added that employers should focus on education, work-life balance, and stress management support.
“Providing accurate information about alcohol’s real effects, encouraging healthier schedules, and offering support services can make a real difference,” Dr Thompson said.
Targeted Solutions, Healthier Workplaces
The researchers emphasised that tailored approaches are essential. Younger male workers and those in physically demanding roles, such as labouring and manual trades, were identified as particularly high-risk groups.
“Younger male workers and those in physically demanding jobs are among the highest-risk populations,” Dr Di Censo said. “Targeting these groups with relevant messaging and practical support could significantly reduce harm.”
Ultimately, the study highlights that drinking habits do not exist in isolation—they are shaped by a combination of work demands, lifestyle pressures, and social norms.
“By recognising how work conditions intersect with drinking habits,” Dr Di Censo concluded, “employers and policymakers can help create healthier environments that support both productivity and wellbeing.”
