Developing Proactive Policies for Alcohol Use at Clubs
I partner with leadership and management teams to develop solutions for mental health issues among employees and clients. One of the most challenging, and common issues is alcohol and substance use. One would be hard pressed to find a workplace that hasn’t been impacted by it. Golf clubs face unique challenges while balancing excellent hospitality service, and recreation. When people are socializing and recreating, alcohol will likely be available. With the holiday’s around the corner, it’s important for clubs to support their staff in managing members and guests who may abuse alcohol. Partnering with an expert can help in the following ways:
Clinical Social Workers are educated and trained to assess and provide solutions for social and behavioral challenges. Helping staff to develop awareness, assertive communication, and conflict resolution skills, all aim to equip staff to address problematic alcohol use.
Workplace behavioral health is a growing field. Acknowledging and addressing mental health and alcohol use at golf clubs will make sure that staff feel supported by leadership. Offering the right resources to balance workplace challenges is essential to maintaining a productive and resilient team that can support each other through difficult situations.
With a combination of personal and professional experience, I help club leaders develop comprehensive strategies that are unique to each club.
Club leadership must consider the fine line employees walk to handle situations effectively, and professionally. When staff don't feel supported to redirect members about alcohol use the club’s ability to maintain a safe environment is handicapped. If members are visibly intoxicated, but respond combatively or defensively to redirection, it’s important that employees feel confident to take the necessary actions to secure physical and emotional safety for everyone. Therefore, club leadership must develop policies to address mental health and substance use.
Understanding signs of alcohol abuse, and high-risk behaviors can help employees feel confident they are truly providing the best services to their members. Training and guidance will empower employees to help members towards support instead of punishment, and ensure that the enjoyment and safety of others isn’t compromised. When someone is under the influence of too much alcohol, their behaviors will change and push the boundaries of social norms. A member who normally acts appropriately may suddenly not be able to.
Alcohol is a depressant and works to slow the central nervous system. Not only does it increase the risk of erratic behavior, but it can increase the risk of other physical health problems for those with preexisting conditions.
Know the signs: Making sure employees know when a member has had enough to drink.
As drinking culture changes, clubs could consider a drink limit to help prevent alcohol abuse.
Offering a solution: employees can utilize their behavioral health resources to monitor and support members who’ve been struggling with alcohol use at the club. Instead of implementing disciplinary actions, they can connect them with behavioral health support from a professional.
Now is the best time for the golf club industry to reform its relationship with alcohol as more people are looking to socialize without alcohol. Even though drinking is deeply rooted in club culture, COVID 19 jolted a new demographic into the game of golf. With a focus on health and wellness, people are looking for more sober activities. Trends like “sober curious”, and “dry January” have become popular for people who never had issues drinking. It’s an excellent opportunity for club leadership to expand and diversify their culture and offer more inclusive (and safer) opportunities to socialize. Clubs can capitalize on the emphasis of a health-conscious movement with proactive measures around alcohol related policies.
Provide alternate events: Clubs could ensure activities are offered to members who want to enjoy alcohol-free social events.
Find organizations who specialize in developing mocktail menus and sober parties.
Decide as a club that developing options for a new customer base is right for your membership and consider the benefits of a sober friendly culture.
My passion for golf, personal journey in recovery, and professional expertise in behavioral health have led to the successful integration of services to address mental health and alcohol use issues within the golf club industry. Together with club leadership, we can empower and prepare club employees to be proactive in helping members when alcohol abuse becomes an issue.
