Substance guides

Working from home and drinking: The hidden risk of remote work

Published September 10, 2025 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Remote work has blurred the boundary between work and personal life in ways that increase alcohol use. The lack of structured workday, social isolation, and absence of visible accountability create an environment where drinking can escalate unnoticed.

Why remote work increases drinking

No commute creates opportunity for earlier drinking. No colleagues to notice impairment. Isolation reduces social connection (a major addiction protective factor). Work-from-home stress without office social support. Easy access to alcohol throughout the day.

Warning signs

Drinking during work hours (even just one). Scheduling meetings around drinking. Decreased productivity attributed to other factors. Increasing isolation from friends and colleagues. Wine or beer becoming part of the daily work routine.

What to do

Maintain structured work hours. Do not keep alcohol accessible during work. Maintain regular social connections (even virtual). Separate workspace from living space if possible. If you recognize a problem developing, address it early.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal to drink while working from home?

Common does not mean normal or healthy. Drinking during work hours, regardless of location, indicates a boundary issue with alcohol.

Did remote work increase alcoholism?

Alcohol consumption increased significantly during and after the pandemic-era remote work shift, with heavy drinking days and alcohol-related health problems rising.

How do I stop drinking while working from home?

Remove alcohol from your workspace. Set firm rules about when drinking is acceptable. If you cannot follow your own rules, seek professional evaluation.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.