It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origins of the term “liquid lunch,” but it has informally come to signify a light-hearted, social lunch consisting mainly of alcoholic drinks.
Historically, the practice has been associated with certain high-pressure professions like finance, sales, and legal services, where the use of alcohol as a business or social networking tool is widely accepted and the “work hard, play hard” mentality was prevalent.
However, the term has expanded from defining strictly those limited professions. Surveys show that 35% of people in the UK have noticed colleagues under the influence of drugs and alcohol at work, showing that the practice of drinking while at work is more common than most would like to admit.
However, this practice poses a significant challenge for people in recovery from alcohol dependence, creating a potentially exclusionary work environment.
What Is an Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a term used to describe the inability to cut down or stop alcohol use despite its negative social, physical, or financial consequences.
It includes different types of problematic alcohol use, like binge drinking, drinking associated with risky activities (for example, drink-driving), or even full-blown alcohol dependence.
Generally, treatment for AUD involves several options geared towards maintaining long-term sobriety or reducing alcohol intake.
Individuals with more severe forms of AUD, multiple failed attempts at treatment, or significant social, medical, or psychological harm due to alcohol use may aim for total abstinence.
On the other hand, people with less severe forms of problematic drinking could aim for harm reduction by cutting down on alcohol consumption.
Defining Liquid Lunches and Their Impact
A liquid lunch is a social break away from work. It typically involves a visit to a pub or bar, where individuals can grab a bite to eat and enjoy a drink. Unlike a traditional sit-down meal, a liquid lunch often consists of a meal or snack consumed while drinking, making it more casual and relaxed.
Liquid lunches have become popular, especially among workers who need a break from their daily routine. They provide an opportunity for socialising, networking, and relaxation, which can positively impact mental health and productivity. For many, a liquid lunch is a way to reward themselves for a hard week’s work or to celebrate a special occasion.
These breaks can also be a convenient option for those hungry who need a quick bite but don’t have time for a complete meal. Sometimes, liquid lunches can be a course of action for those who want to learn new skills or attend events, such as workshops or seminars, during their lunch break.
The concept of liquid lunches has been around for a while, but it has gained popularity recently, especially with the rise of digital downloads and online events. Liquid lunches can be enjoyed any day of the week, but Fridays are often the most popular day for this type of break.
Liquid lunches are a great way to take a break from work, socialise, and recharge, making them a valuable part of many people’s daily routines. However, for those in recovery from alcohol use disorder, navigating these social events can be challenging, and it’s important to find inclusive and supportive alternatives.
Why Liquid Lunches are Problematic for Those in Recovery
The practice of liquid lunches poses a significant dilemma for those in recovery for several reasons. In contrast, many employees may opt for informal eating habits, such as having a sandwich at their desk, rather than enjoying a drink at a pub, illustrating a change in workplace dining culture.
In the event of navigating social drinking events, alcohol-centred activities could act as a potential trigger. Many people in recovery from AUD chose the path of total abstinence, and serving alcoholic beverages could act as a social trigger, leading to relapse, PTSD, guilt, anxiety, and even depressive episodes. This is especially true for those still in the early stages of recovery.
Feeling pressured to participate. Even if a person in recovery is not directly tempted to drink, they could feel pressured to because drinking in such a situation is encouraged or even expected. Not participating could create a fear of stigmatisation, especially if the request comes from a person in a position of power.
Creating a sense of isolation. People who do not participate may experience various degrees of social isolation, negatively affecting their working relationships and professional progression. Also, in a society that has normalised social drinking, they stand the risk of feeling judged or misunderstood as being “anti-social.”.
Alternative Solutions for Workers
Now that we’ve identified the problems, what solutions can workplaces adopt?
Promoting practices that are inclusive to those in recovery. This includes creating a workplace culture that avoids alcohol-centric activities and offers sober alternatives like mocktails, cafés, or sparkling water. These alcohol-free social and professional interactions help support a diverse range of employees, including those in recovery.
Supporting a workplace culture that discourages work-time drinking. Alcohol use is responsible for a significant amount of absenteeism, presenteeism, and workplace accidents, which cost the UK economy roughly £7 billion per year, and 25% of workers say that drugs or alcohol have affected them at work. Discouraging worktime alcohol use would build a more inclusive environment and boost productivity.
Companies should make efforts to redefine the meaning of networking. The idea of “networking” should shift from mostly informal events with practices that may be exclusionary, such as alcohol-focused gatherings, to more inclusive activities that accommodate diverse needs. This includes hosting professional lunches or coffee chats, organising team-building events in sober environments, or creating forums prioritising meaningful discussions over social drinking.
Seek alternative means of stress relief. In many high-pressure professions, liquid lunches are a way to de-stress. A study by the charity Alcohol Change shows that 27% of employees reported that workplace stress makes them drink more. A great way to discourage this is to encourage healthy, non-alcoholic workplace activities for blowing off steam, such as meditation spaces, team activities, sober gatherings, fitness challenges, trivia, and so on.
Practical Tips for Navigating Social Drinking Events at the Bar
Despite your best efforts, you may still find yourself in situations where alcoholic beverages might still be served. One of the most important skills to learn during recovery is how to successfully navigate situations like these. Here are some tips:
Plan ahead if you suspect that alcohol may be served. This includes coming with alternative food and drinks. You can also decide to leave the gathering early.
Bring along a sober ally who will help you maintain sobriety during social events.
Don’t hesitate to politely but firmly turn down an alcoholic beverage if offered. It’s a great idea to practice different scenarios beforehand.
If you feel comfortable doing so, you can inform your work colleagues about your recovery journey. Take up their offer to seek a non-alcoholic alternative if they offer.
Proactively suggest alcohol-free alternatives like cafes and mocktails.
Practice an exit strategy if you feel triggered or pressured to take alcohol.
Actively limit the number of drinks you plan to take if your recovery journey is centred around cutting down alcohol intake. You can also inform your sobriety ally so they can help you maintain accountability.
Don’t hesitate to call your sponsors, friends, or family if you feel triggered.
Reach out to alcohol addiction specialists like The Perry Clayman Project, who can offer you guidance on how to maintain sobriety in social situations.
Don’t give up even if you fall. Recovery is an uneven road filled with missteps and triumphs.
It is also essential to keep track of your order tracking and delivery information, such as dispatch times, delivery charges, and the necessity of a signature upon delivery. It is crucial to keep customers informed about their orders and any changes that may arise.
The practice of liquid lunches presents significant challenges for individuals in recovery. However, as workplaces strive to become more inclusive, they must create a culture that supports sobriety.
This includes offering sober alternatives and promoting an understanding environment. Ultimately, shifting the social norms around alcohol in professional environments is not only beneficial for those in recovery but also creates a healthier and more inclusive workplace for all employees. Employers and the economy can also benefit from the boost in productivity.
If you’re struggling with maintaining sobriety, don’t hesitate to reach out to addiction specialists who can offer you guidance on your journey to maintaining long-term sobriety. Social events, especially those on Friday, can be particularly challenging, so planning is key.
