Alcohol, mental health and the workplace (MRP210)

A substantial proportion of alcohol consumption is associated with working life, with historical roots at both national and international levels. Variations across industries, employment conditions, and workplace cultures appear to shape patterns of alcohol use, yielding differential implications for women and men. Alcohol use in occupational contexts may be regarded as having both beneficial and adverse consequences. On the one hand, it may facilitate team cohesion, reduce stress, and induce positive affect. On the other hand, the detrimental consequences for working life are considerable, manifesting in absenteeism, presenteeism, and potential harm to both organizational reputation and the psychosocial work environment. The course further addresses problematic gambling behaviours, as well as the use of prescription medications and illicit substances within occupational settings.

Students will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge on mental health and alcohol use in the workplace through lectures, discussions, group work, and individual assignments. The course aims to foster critical reflection on ethical considerations, personal attitudes toward the topics, and gender-related challenges.

The following themes will be central and examined in the course:

• Knowledge of work-related alcohol use
• Knowledge of health-promoting and health-inhibiting factors in working life
• Critical reflection on ethical considerations and personal attitudes

Knowledge

The candidate:

• advanced knowledge of the scope and consequences of work-related alcohol use
• advanced knowledge of factors that hinder participation in working life
• advanced knowledge of inclusive working life practices
• advanced knowledge of the topics from a gender and public health science perspective
• advanced knowledge of prevention strategies and early intervention
• knowledge of the rights and obligations of employers and employees in working life

Skills

The candidate:

• is able to apply knowledge of alcohol and mental health in the workplace to identify, assess, and seek appropriate assistance for the implementation of workplace interventions
• is able to apply knowledge of alcohol and mental health in the workplace in written materials such as alcohol policies, articles, and relevant reports etc

General competence

The candidate:

• is able to reflect on the significance of working life for individuals and society
• is able to critically reflect on alcohol use in relation to working life
• is able to critically reflect on public health interventions in the workplace

Master programme in substance use and mental health work.

Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may apply for admission to the course.

Master programme in substance use and mental health work.

Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may apply for admission to the course.