Adverse Work Environment and Substance Abuse Among Oil Exploration Workers

Oil exploration workers operate in uniquely challenging environments characterized by physical isolation, demanding workloads, and hazardous conditions.These stressors may contribute to maladaptive coping behaviors, including substance abuse.However, little is known about the lived experiences of these workers in Nigeria, particularly how occupational stress influences substance use.This study explores how adverse work environments shape substance use behaviors among oil and gas workers in Rivers State, Nigeria, with attention to workplace stressors, coping strategies, and socio-demographic influences.A qualitative design was employed, utilizing 20 in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions with oil exploration workers.Participants were selected using purposive and snowball sampling.Data were collected using validated interview guides.Thematic analyses were conducted using Braun and Clarke's method, supported by NVivo software.Participants described their work environments as physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding.Long and irregular working hours, exposure to environmental hazards, and prolonged isolation offshore were commonly cited stressors.These adverse conditions often led to high levels of perceived stress, which many workers coped with by engaging in substance use, particularly alcohol, energy drinks, stimulants, and prescription painkillers.Substance use was widely normalized and reinforced by peer influence and workplace culture, with some participants admitting to using substances even during work hours.While many struggled with maladaptive coping, others, commonly older, married workers with strong social or religious support, reported more constructive strategies such as prayer, exercise, or maintaining regular contact with family.Age, marital status, family dynamics, and religious involvement were found to influence individual susceptibility to substance use and coping choices.Adverse work environments significantly influence substance use among oil and gas workers in Nigeria.The normalization of substance use, combined with poor mental health support, underscores the need for targeted workplace interventions, including counseling services, employee wellness programs, and culturally sensitive prevention efforts that involve families and faith-based supports.