Sales jobs often require an outgoing, charismatic personality, as those in this profession must be able to develop connections with clients and customers and convince them that their product is the best on the market. Upper-level sales jobs often require professionals to travel around the country to connect with customers to pitch their products. While the job may be exciting and rewarding, there is one drawback of working in sales: these professionals may be at increased risk of alcohol abuse.

Alcohol Abuse Among Sales Professionals

While it would be extreme to argue that working in sales directly leads to alcohol abuse, it is difficult to deny that those in this field may be at increased risk of developing problems with alcohol. In fact, a 2013 study in The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse found that sales workers were significantly more likely than other professionals were to engage in binge drinking.

Binge drinking may be common in sales professionals, but that doesn’t mean that it is without consequences. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as consuming 5 or more drinks in a 2-hour period for men and 4 or more drinks for women. Binge drinking is associated with an increased risk of alcohol use disorder, which is the clinical term for an alcohol addiction.

Why is alcohol abuse so common in sales professionals?

While not everyone who works in sales will succumb to alcohol addiction, there are some features of this career path that can make alcohol abuse more likely. For instance, sales professionals are known to travel, which may lend itself to spending time eating out in restaurants or bars that serve alcohol. In many cases, those who work in sales may meet with potential clients over lunch or dinner, and ordering an alcoholic beverage may be an expected part of the process. Consuming alcohol may even lower inhibitions and increase sales professionals’ confidence when pitching their products. Over time, the use of alcohol on-the-job can lead to problem drinking.

Sales professionals also tend to be immersed in nightlife culture. After long days traveling and meeting with clients, sales professionals may find themselves alone in their hotel rooms before leaving on another trip or returning to the airport for a flight home. Heading out to a bar or club can be a way to entertain oneself and fight against boredom while traveling. Unfortunately, being immersed in the nightlife scene can place someone at risk of prescription drug abuse, in addition to alcohol abuse, according to research.

Addiction Treatment for Sales Professionals

Over time, sales professionals who use substances recreationally or who partake in binge drinking while traveling for business may find themselves showing symptoms of a substance use disorder. If you work in sales and notice that you cannot cut back on drug or alcohol use, despite consequences at work or home, and you are using more than intended, it is time to reach out for help.

It can be challenging to make room for treatment in the midst of a demanding work schedule, but iRecoveryUSA offers a solution.

Telehealth-based Treatment Options

Without our telehealth portal, you can receive comprehensive addiction treatment from wherever you are, whether you’re in a hotel room or back at home after a week of traveling. Contact iRecovery today to connect with licensed specialists. Or, explore alcohol treatment programs and options designed for the busy life of a sales professional.