When we know that in the general population, 22.9% of individuals have excessive alcohol consumption ( Canadian Community Survey 2018 ) and that the relationship between stress and alcohol consumption has been demonstrated for a long time ( Sinha, R. 2009 ), we can easily imagine that this question concerns entrepreneurs. And indeed, I also notice it among my clients.

Under pressure

Stress and pressure are an integral part of many entrepreneurs' lives. When we operate in a stressful environment, our body is constantly solicited, which causes the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. However, this constant activation becomes heavy and can have physical consequences (fatigue, back pain, chest tightness, etc.), psychological consequences (anxiety, irritability, feeling of never getting there, etc.) and interpersonal consequences (irritability, anger, etc.).

Everyone finds a way to deal with this pressure, some do sports or yoga. Others will go for the simplest method, which is to take a substance that has a relaxing effect. This is where alcohol comes in. Because alcohol is a depressant of the nervous system.

Self-medicate

This phenomenon, well known to health professionals, is called self-medication. Rather than going towards natural means that allow us to develop healthy stress management, we slowly develop bad lifestyle habits that have long-term impacts on our health.

Also, since we do not develop healthy stress management strategies, the use of alcohol remains our main strategy and sometimes even the one and only one. The danger of alcohol abuse therefore becomes very real. Alcohol responds here to a targeted need, that of reducing stress. The risk of developing an alcohol problem then becomes very significant. And, as we know, abuse brings its share of problems: relationship, productivity, health, motivation and, in some cases, reputation problems.

Of course, as a psychologist I do not advocate stopping alcohol consumption. I do not deny the pleasure felt when dipping your lips into a well-aged Sauternes or savoring the latest IPA from the local brewer. I just think it is important to ask yourself the question when you notice that your alcohol consumption is increasing. Am I having this glass because I like the taste, because I want to savor this wine or am I consuming this glass to lower the pressure, to relax? Pleasure or self-medication? If the answer is the latter, you would certainly also benefit from trying a month without alcohol, and even better, from developing a reflection on your alcohol consumption.

Activity to easily replace alcohol consumption

To do this, we try to practice activities that are naturally contrary to the consumption of alcohol, but which still allow us to ensure a detachment that is so beneficial after a hard day's work.

1. Plan a team sport during the week.

2. Equip yourself for an individual sport that you can practice if necessary (running in summer, cross-country skiing in winter, gym near your home).

3. Playing a video game that requires sharp reflexes (rarely possible under the influence of alcohol).