Between 2018 and 2023, there were 332 suspected drug deaths in Aberdeen alone. In August 2024, we reported that drug-related deaths had risen.
Substance use needs to be addressed, and with the reports of drug use on oil and gas rigs in 2017, it’s especially important. Alcohol and drug use doesn’t simply disappear.
In the oil and gas sector, workers direct drill pipes in the most extreme of weather conditions in unfathomable positions that would terrify the vast majority. With the monotony, darkness, and harsh conditions that come with working on a rig, substance use can seem a release.
As pointed out, oil and gas workers are in seriously risky and dangerous conditions. It’s paramount that they’re on form. They need to be sharp. Full cognitive functioning is a must. Unfortunately, using substances drastically and negatively alters brain functioning even when a person uses substances so regularly that they don’t see the negative implications.
What is a high-functioning addict?
It’s important to consider what a functional addict is. Many people who use substances don’t consider themselves as addicted because they don’t “look like” the imagined stereotype.
A high-functioning addict is a person who uses alcohol or drugs regularly, who needs the substance to feel normal, and who—on the surface—lives a “normal life.” This might mean that they hold down a job and carry out family responsibilities.
For those working in the oil and gas sector while using substances regularly, this is significant. Whether a person uses alcohol or drugs daily or not, if they use them while working, it poses a threat. Many of those working off-shore are in high risk jobs. This, paired with high-risk behaviours (substance use), heightens the probability of seriously dangerous accidents and injuries occurring.
What to do in the case of substance use on rig
Due to the high-risk nature of working in the oil and gas industry and operating heavy machinery and raw materials, it’s especially important to seek help in the case of substance abuse.
Communication is the first port of call. If you, or a colleague, are using alcohol and drugs, especially while on-the-job, confiding in somebody is essential. Either speaking with a line manager or an identified colleague who can offer guidance around personal issues will help. This person will support you towards professional help as well as offering a way to manage the situation professionally.
You can also access support confidentially through drug and alcohol services. When you access professional help, you develop tools for harm reduction around substance use as well as ways to manage addiction and also embark on a plan for sobriety.
It’s important to note that health and safety risk assessments, as well as insurance, become invalidated when a worker is under the influence of substances. While your employer will do what they can to support you through occupational therapy services, it’s important that you’re transparent in order to achieve the safest outcomes for all parties involved.
What does recovery mean?
Recovery means accessing support to manage substance use. For some this means reducing use (i.e. reducing from daily drinking to three drinks a week); for others it means quitting the substance completely.
Support is offered through alcohol and drug workers. This might be support workers, counsellors, or practitioners who facilitate various activities (i.e. art therapy) with the aim of equipping you with new, healthy coping mechanisms, self-awareness, and new behaviours. With new understanding and structure, a healthier mindset develops and lifestyle evolves.
Developing resilience is key to recovery. With the tools to manage triggers and uncomfortable states of mind, it’s easier to handle life in the future and to not fall back into substance abuse.
Recovery means spending time healing yourself in relation to the physical, mental, and social aspects of life.
What addiction treatment is there?
There are different forms of treatment when healing an addiction. This is a complex disease, and as such, it requires a multi-faceted approach.
In the first instance, a detox from all substances is necessary. This means stopping taking alcohol and drugs and doing so in a safe way.
Some substances (i.e. alcohol and opiates) require a medically supervised detox where medication is offered to manage symptoms of withdrawal (which can be dangerous).
A 28 day detox is standard, though this can be shortened. Some people will do this at a rehab clinic, others will do it home under the direction of a doctor.
Therapy and counselling is an important part of treatment offered by addiction treatment centres in Scotland. This is where understanding of the addiction emerges.
It’s where people learn why the addiction came about, what keeps it going, and what can be done to manage thoughts and behaviours going forward. Therapy offers ways to take back control of mental health and wellbeing.
Many people attend group sessions. This might be linked to developing goals and taking steps to reach goals. Very useful in structuring a new life, this approach to recovery offers practical ways to live. Some also choose to follow the 12 Step approach to healing.
The social aspect of recovery is crucial to maintaining sobriety and focus. Human connection introduces honest reflection and meaning.
It’s really important when healing from substance abuse to improve nutrition and ensure a well-balanced diet. Getting in the essential vitamins and minerals supports the brain and body to heal effectively and return to healthy functioning as quickly as possible.
Will recovery impact work?
Like any illness or disease, addiction impacts work. If a person works while under the influence, it affects work capacity and safety. The fact of the matter is that substances change cognitive and executive functioning and people aren’t working to their highest standard when using. If a person takes time off due to substance cravings or withdrawal, it also has impact.
Taking time off to recover impacts work in the sense that it’s time off, but in the long-run there are many advantages. Becoming sober is a return to health. As well as improved health, relationships, and finances, work outcomes improve as mental and physical capacity increases.
Working in the Oil and Gas sector long-term while in recovery
Once sober, it becomes easier to navigate the challenges of life. Therapeutic work helps you to build resilience through developing new strategies that help you when triggered. It’s essential to discuss environmental triggers with your therapist so that you can plan for your return to the rig. This helps prevent relapse and to overcome uncomfortable thoughts and moments.
When returning to the rig, you’ll have a list of go-to tools to assist you in staying sober. The more these tools are used, the easier it is to stay sober and focused on nurturing a healthier mindset while working.
Concluding thoughts
Substance abuse in the oil and gas sector needs to be addressed. Working off-shore is a high-risk environment and as such employees must be supported to communicate issues and access recovery support.
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Through treatment, new coping mechanisms are developed to help people manage thoughts and behaviours into the future. These are essential for a successful career in the sector.
FAQs
Can addiction be cured?
Addiction is a disease. Many believe that the best possible outcome for it is long-term sobriety. Sobriety is achievable. The safest and most effective way to become sober is through drug and alcohol treatment services and rehab clinics.
How long does it take to recover from addiction?
Recovery is different for every individual. A clinical detox where a person is weaned off substances typically takes around 28 days. It takes ongoing therapy, usually accompanied by group work and holistic approaches, to fully treat the root causes of addiction. The longer a person is sober, the easier it is to remain so. Cravings weaken over time and resolve strengthens.
