Why is Substance Abuse Common Among Executives

Executives, particularly C-suite executives, often seem infallible and untouchable. Substance Use Disorder, however, does not discriminate. Even these high-power individuals can struggle with the complexities of substance use disorders.

Executives tend to be high earners and hold a lot of power in an organization. This, of course, comes with great responsibilities – from making major decisions to bearing the most liability. These responsibilities along with other factors can make them vulnerable to SUDs.

Stress of Leadership

Executives are expected to carry and lead an entire organization which could consist of anywhere from dozens to thousands of employees. Most executives are dubbed as natural leaders, but even the most talented ones can succumb to the stress of leadership.

Stress, as they say, comes with the job description. Unfortunately, many executives use alcohol and illicit drugs to alleviate stress. This can eventually turn into a coping mechanism leading to alcohol and drug cravings whenever they face pressure.

Pressure to Perform Well

Executives, or management in general, are considered the face of the company. As such, their every move is often closely scrutinized. Since they represent the company, they deal with the constant pressure to perform well–whether it is in the more technical aspects of running a business or in socializing with clients and prospective investors.

There are executives who resort to using substances to boost their performance. Some take illicit drugs to maintain a confident facade even in the face of work challenges. Others use substances to increase their productivity which they often equate with good performance.

Maintaining Status and Appearances

As previously mentioned, some executives are driven to substance misuse to deal with stress and boost performance. In a lot of cases, these executives do recognize that they have an alcohol or substance problem. However, their desire to preserve their position and maintain appearances often keeps them from seeking professional help. This leads them to spiral deeper into SUD.

Many executives strive to embody an identity they believe aligns with how others perceive someone in their role. Maintaining this persona, at least for them, translates to maintaining their status. Unfortunately, this can lead to stress and feelings of isolation which can drive them to turn to alcohol or illicit substances.

Exposure to Binge Culture

Drinking alcohol to celebrate corporate events or host clients is considered a norm in many industries. Since drinking is deemed socially acceptable, some executives might not see the line where social drinking becomes alcohol misuse.

In many industries, more is often perceived as better, and this culture of ‘excess’ sometimes includes alcohol consumption and even illicit drug intake.