The Hidden Cost of Hangovers: Aveek Bhattacharya's Economic Insights
People working drunk or hungover cost the economy about £1.4 billion a year.
Ever wondered how much a hangover can cost beyond the headache and nausea? In this episode of the Alcohol Alert Podcast, policy analyst Aveek Bhattacharya reveals some staggering figures. According to a recent IAS report, up to 89,000 workers in the UK show up hungover or still intoxicated every single day. This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a massive economic problem, costing the UK economy about £1.4 billion annually. But wait, there's more!
Bhattacharya's research suggests that when you factor in reduced productivity, the real cost could be closer to £2 billion. Imagine the impact on businesses and colleagues who have to pick up the slack. Bhattacharya dives into why this issue needs urgent attention from both employers and policymakers. If you’re curious about how alcohol affects not just individual lives but the economy as a whole, this episode is a must-listen.
It's an eye-opener for anyone interested in public health, workplace productivity, or economic policy.