How Addiction Has Affected The Banking Industry

While addiction rarely has a single cause, stressful sectors certainly lean toward a heightened level of addiction. The banking and financial sector are notorious for being a high stress job and more than that, possessing a very sociable culture where alcohol and drugs are prevalent.

Back in the 70’s, cocaine and marijuana were hugely popular within the industry, whether that was day to day or when ‘entertaining clients’. In the 80’s and 90’s, the trend leant more toward Ecstasy and Ritalin. Fast forward to today and alcohol is front and centre. The question for many however, is quite simply, what causes such high levels of addiction and where are stress management policies and procedures?

The Causes Of Addiction In The Banking Industry

Addiction is usually caused through a culmination of things from physical and mental health to family history and of course, life experience. Evidence suggests that addiction is related to trauma and stress as well as the desire to solve a problem. Numerous addictions, such as alcohol and drug addiction within the banking industry are linked back to the high levels of stress however it’s worth noting, as we’ve previously mentioned that the banking industry has for many years had a culture that almost encourages the use of alcohol when ‘socialising’ with clients. 

Addiction itself develops when that particular person needs to use more and more of something in order to get the same good feelings and with so much ‘client entertaining’, it’s no surprise that alcohol intake rises over a period of time. Introduce recreational drugs into this setting and it’s clear to see how addiction has become a very real problem.

While it would be unfair to suggest that the banking industry as a whole has a far higher rate of addiction, it’s not unfair to suggest that the industry itself provides an environment in which it could become easy to fall into this position, especially those at a very high level where roles are high stress due to being performance and results driven.

What Effect Has This Had In Banking?

Due to the focus of higher roles being on results and performance, it’s not uncommon for those with substance abuse problems to be high functioning addicts. This however doesn’t eliminate the effect addiction has on this industry. In fact, there are numerous signs and symptoms that you may notice immediately around you…

• Frequent absences from their desk or scheduled meetings
• Memory problems
• Attention problems
• Tendency to blame others
• Self care and hygiene issues
• Changes in personality

Contact The Experts Today

While addiction may be prevalent within the banking industry, it doesn’t need to be an accepted part of the culture. In fact, many within the industry are now taking positive steps towards eliminating this culture by introducing policies that help those suffering with addiction, offering the support and guidance they need while also introducing the necessary training for both management and employees. Infinity Addiction Solutions are one such company that offers workplace training as well as substance abuse rehabilitation services throughout Essex and London. For more information on their services, contact them today on 0800 334 5541.