The tourism industry is one of the largest sectors of the global economy, employing millions of people and contributing trillions of dollars towards the world’s GDP. But it’s also one of the industries that’s most vulnerable to addiction — and, as a result, it can be one of the most destabilizing.
Addiction in the tourism industry can take many forms, ranging from environmental addiction (resulting from rampant landfill waste created by tourism activities, overuse of plastic materials, and pollution from emissions generated by plane and car travel) to addiction to opiates and other drugs associated with the industry (such as those found in recreational areas, hotels, and other places of leisure).
Addiction in the tourism industry is often caused by a combination of factors, including poor mental health, the prevalence of drugs used to cope with stress and long working hours, and a general lack of support for employees. Many of these factors are beyond employers’ control, such as the economic climate, legislative changes, or changes in the industry which cause stress or job losses.
However, being aware of the risks of addiction in the tourism industry is the first step towards prevention. Employers should pay close attention to employee wellness, promote healthy workplace culture, and use drug testing to monitor employees. Employers should also provide adequate mental health support, offer leaves of absence in case of drug/alcohol abuse, and provide addiction prevention and intervention programs.
Tourism staff are also at greater risk of addiction because of their proximity to drugs. Resort, hotel, and even retail stores within tourism destinations have often been known to be “druggy” environments, with employees often using drugs to stay awake longer, be more productive, or simply to have more fun. But this just fuels an endless cycle that can be extremely harmful.
In addition, longer shifts and flexible working hours, the development of social cliques within resorts, and the “party culture” in tourism environments can lead to a social acceptance of drug and alcohol use among staff. So while it’s important to focus on prevention, it’s also essential to create a supportive work environment where employees feel safe and accepted, and to ensure that they’re provided with the resources and occasions they need to develop positive coping strategies.
Finally, addiction in the tourism industry can be caused by underlying trauma which, although not often rightly acknowledged, can be deeply rooted. Developing effective measures to identify and address trauma, including talking to staff about mental health programs, is key to providing an area of safety and support, which in turn will help prevent and manage addiction.
As the tourism industry continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, it’s essential to recognize the need for preventative measures and to ensure that efforts are made to protect the wellbeing of employees. By taking the necessary steps, for both individuals and institutions, to tackle addiction in the tourism industry, we can ensure that it’s a safe and sustainable industry for everyone.