How to support sober employees beyond 'Dry January'

January is a good time to set goals and resolutions for the year ahead. But keeping them is another matter. 

According to hospitality data provider CGA, 35% of Americans resolved to take part in "Dry January," abstaining from alcohol during the first month of the year. However, while their intentions may be good, just 9% of people who set a new year's resolution actually achieve it, with nearly a quarter giving up after the first week, according to data from the Society for Personality and Social Psychology. 

Reduced drinking has many physical and mental benefits, and encouraging this lifestyle beyond January is a good practice — especially in the wake of the pandemic, says Karen Siegel, HR and business development manager at recruitment and management platform Delta Hire. 

"Since COVID, we've all taken a hard look at ourselves, and understand that wellness is more of a priority," Siegel says. "Things like sober curiosity have come up more because people are understanding the benefits of being sober: you sleep better, your overall wellness is better, your performance is higher." 

Read more: As addiction rates soar, employers can offer a lifeline 

Getting employers involved could help more people stay on track with their goals, she says, yet alcohol use is often baked into a company's culture. From in-person holiday parties to Zoom happy hours, alcohol is typically normalized as a way to socialize and celebrate. But for many, casually using alcohol is leading to more disruptive habits both in and out of the workplace. 

A survey by software platform Protecting found that nine out of 10 employees admitted to drinking while working from home. Alcohol use can lead to lost productivity, increased healthcare spend and personal accidents, costing employers up to $68 billion per year. 

Read more: How this CEO used his own experience with addiction to change substance use treatment

While casual drinking does not always lead to more serious alcohol addiction down the line, substance use disorders have skyrocketed throughout the pandemic. Excessive drinking increased 21% from pre-pandemic rates, according to research from Massachusetts General Hospital. 

"Unfortunately, substance abuse is one of the leading causes of death now in our country," Siegel says. "The phrases 'sober curious' or 'Dry January' are terms of wanting to better your life, which is great. But if you're someone who truly struggles with addiction and maybe long-term sobriety, that can be off-putting. We have to be mindful." 

While it's important to destigmatize drinking, taking an all-or-nothing approach won't work, Siegel says. For people who are curious about cutting back their alcohol consumption as well as employees who feel comfortable with drinking, finding the right balance with your benefits and workplace communications is key. 

"Employers can help with overall wellness, and instead of happy hours, plan group activities like yoga or rock climbing. This can drive team building that's less about alcohol consumption," Siegel says. "You want all employees to feel included — don't just have a sober event, or only serve alcohol. Have an open dialogue about it." 

Read more: There's hope for employees with drug and alcohol addiction. Here's how to help

For people who may need additional support, ensuring employees know what's available — be it a 12-step program or addiction programs and resources — is a valuable benefit. And while it's tempting to overhaul office policies at the start of the year, the messaging and programs tailored around health and wellness should be a year-round effort. 

"Driving the message year-round that drinking is not taboo or shameful helps employees feel comfortable and like their employer is someone they can trust," Siegel says. "Be direct — be less focused on the catchy keywords and more on the wellness of your employees."