Studies have shown that people who drink alcohol are much more likely to smoke tobacco, and people who smoke tobacco are much more likely to drink alcohol. The two go hand in hand and this is due to several reasons.
First, the socio-economic circles of smokers and drinkers often collide and even more often are identical. In this way, one leads to the other through the process of popularity and sheer convenience. Convenience comes into play a great deal concerning this topic, since smoking and drinking begin as cool or interesting or experimental pastimes which only develop into addictions through the use of convenient access and social circles.
Second, smokers and drinkers often inhabit the same places of eating, entertainment and post work activities, which allows them to relax and recreate together, often using their smoking and drinking habits as ice breakers, social tools, and a common bonding activity. This is especially true the less the members of the group have in common. If they have nothing else in common besides smoking and drinking, they are more likely to use these activities until they can find a more substantial common interest.
Third, both alcohol and tobacco mimic each other with regard to the dopamine reward system activated within the brain. They are similar in the individual’s response to the reward, causing relaxation and ease of mind, allowing release of endorphins, and the body to release stress. There are many habits which are similar between smokers and drinkers, and just because your employees smoke tobacco does not mean that they are necessarily drinkers. The two, however, lead similar lifestyles, so that is information to keep in mind while you are planning your drug and alcohol testing program for your business. Mediscreen provides onsite testing services 24/7, round the clock, so that all of your workers can benefit from incentive to quit drinking, even if they cannot quite bring themselves to quit smoking. Call us today to find out more about our onsite drug and alcohol testing services for your business. We serve all types and all sizes of businesses throughout Western Australia. Call today: (+61) 1300 79 70 40.
