First and foremost, even though the architecture field has a low substance abuse rate “alcohol is the substance these design professionals are most likely to be dependent upon”. In turn, this can pose as dangerous to not only the individual, but others that he/she comes into contact with while in that of his/her work environment. For, addiction takes place in the workplace more often times then not, but those who struggle with such can be good at hiding it. But even so—despite the “7.9% abuse rate in architects in 2010/2011”—the numbers have most likely altered through the passing of time.

Therefore, addiction isn’t something that can always be seen by the eye, but just as with any career architects can very easily be impaired, but not come across as so. Not only that, but an injury that takes place at work—and/or maybe at home—can cause a drastic change to the work ethic of an architect. For, he/she might not be as focused on his/her work, and begin to drink in response to the injury, especially if it disallows him/her to continue with work—and forces him/her to take time off.

Time off may even allow stress in the life of him/her as he/she has to accommodate to life at home. This can even cause one’s addiction to worsen—especially if he/she is already struggling with such—because he/she is forced into a corner where he/she is unable to engage in his/her normal work routine. Depression can begin to settle in response to such, and even more so for those who enjoy what they do, but who are unable to fully engage themselves like they would like to—due to injury. This can pose as difficult for anyone if much of his/her life revolves around work, and he/she is drastically taken out of his/her environment. Not only that, but he/she might use alcohol—and/or drugs—to dull the pain of a workplace injury if it is one of great severity, and that causes a significant amount of discomfort.

In conclusion, one mustn’t think that since a particular field has a low rate of substance abuse/dependency that individuals working in that particular profession are in the clear. The fact of the matter is no one is safe from the pitfall of addiction, as it is something that anyone can endure no matter his/her age, or field of work.

Unfortunately, due to the world in which we live in, architecture is often times overlooked as a form of healing for addicts. For, a majority of the time, when one thinks of recovery for those struggling with substance abuse, his/her mind automatically draws to options such as rehab.

However, in doing so, a number of people frequently miss the treatment that lies in the simplest of things—such as the elements that surround them in that of a constructed building. In turn, there are a number of principles listed—and/or important aspects—that architects must take into account when constructing a place of recovery for addicts, but one of the most important is evidence based design.

Evidence based design—which is also known as EBD—is defined as “the process of basing decisions about the built environment on credible research to achieve the best possible outcomes”. It is through this process that architects are able to better assess, judge, and plan before acting/engaging in the design itself.

Not only that, but evidence based design has become prominent in healthcare design because most hospitals aim to construct ‘healing setting’ for their patients. In turn, they must know what they are building—and how they are going to go about building it—to better fit the patients’ needs. For, there are certain aspects which can help better promote the healing—and/or recovery—such as the color, shape, place, size, etc. As a result, evidence based design allows architects to determine what is needed, for what is being built, by looking at past research, and basing their decisions off such.

Consequently, many patient rooms—in our modern day world—still lack the color and natural sunlight that they need to promote a healthy well-being in that of the individual. In fact, research shows “the influence of well designed environments on positive patient health outcomes, and poor design on negative effects including longer hospital stays”.

In conclusion, evidence based design allows architects to not only build in a way that serves as more efficient, but to also construct with not just the project in mind, but the person/patient. Such a process allows them to do such, without going head first into a project blind eyed—and unaware—as to the way in which it should be built. As a result, recovery can be constructed for future patients of a in-treatment rehabilitation facility—allowing them to regain their health more quickly—by simply being uplifted/healed through aspects such as; window lighting, the color of the room/walls, and so on.

Architecture is defined by google as, “the art of practice of designing and constructing buildings.” However, what many fail to recognize is the difference that such an art can make in the lives of those who struggle with addiction—as it helps them to reconstruct/rebuild that of their own lives. As a result, there are a number of factors that should be taken into account when looking at architecture as a therapy, but three—of some of the most important—are; 1. Health Benefits, 2. Intended Purpose, and 3. Color Therapy.

First and foremost are the health benefits that come through architecture when done properly. For, elements of nature that are implemented into the construction of a particular space can have a big impact on one individual—and/or a set group of individuals. Some examples of this can be seen through skylights, greenhouses, courtyards, windows, and other installments. It is through such that struggling addicts are able to have a natural source of light—rather than artificial—which allows for a much more healthy/enjoyable environment. Not only that, but sunlight helps stimulate good mental health in a number of ways by reducing anxiety and stress, and nourishing one’s psyche.

Second is the intended purpose, which is an extremely important principle, especially in terms of the architecture of what is being constructed. For example, a rehab center is going to be built a little more differently than a school, the same goes for a library and a grocery store. In turn, one must plan accordingly, and have a visual of the outcome, before he/she even begins the project. It is through such that addicts who reside in such can begin to find their purpose in a building that has purpose—and/or that was constructed with their best interest in mind.

Third is color therapy which is defined as, “a system of alternative medicine based on the use of color, especially projected light color”. In turn, it is believed by some that color can promote good health—and is said that by “using healing colors for a room or clothing, you can significantly change the patient’s mood and bring about many mind, body benefits”. For example, red is a warm color which is said to “induce vitality and stimulate energy”.

In conclusion, architecture can be used as a therapy to help the well being of addicts more often than one might think. For sometimes it’s the way that a particular place—or space—is constructed that makes all the difference. It is through such that the color scheme and intended purpose of a particular place can make all the difference in the health/well-being of those struggling with addiction.

Oftentimes—in the midst of a fast paced society—we witness a wide array of architecture day-by-day. Yet even so, we still fail to stop—and take in—all that surrounds a particular location, such as; 1. the space, 2. the place, and 3. the design. For, it is through these three factors that addicts can either be affected for better, or for worse. However, such things are oftentimes overlooked by the outside world—but can make a significant impact in the lives of those struggling with addiction, and who are on the road to recovery.

First and foremost is space, which can go a long way in contributing to one’s happiness—if it’s crafted in the right way. As a matter of fact it doesn’t matter whether the space itself is in the form of a house, apartment, office building, etc.—but rather how it has been structured. For instance, if an individual is confined to an environment that is both restricted and gloomy, that very same atmosphere may reflect within his/her mood/behavior. The same thing takes place if one finds himself/herself in a room with no windows, and/or a room with little to no color.

Second is place, which can bring about a plethora of problems if one is not careful in choosing a setting which benefits the resident’s—and/or residents’—health. For, there are a number of locales that struggling addicts can chose to reside in for reasons that may have very little to do with the place itself, but rather the scenery/view that surrounds it. In turn, place is a factor of great importance—and must serve as a safe haven—whether it be for one individual or many.

Third is design. For, it is through such that addicts can witness beauty during a difficult time in their lives where there may seem to be none. Not only that, but the design—and layout—of a particular building allows them the opportunity to branch out, and discover a new place, without even having to leave home. In turn, those who struggle with addiction don’t have to travel to take part in new places, but can instead explore the architecture which surrounds them.

In conclusion, architecture plays a bigger role—than one might think—in the healing of addicts. For, it is through space, place, and design that they can find comfort in the midst of their recovery. Not only that, but they can begin to find hope again—while residing in a place which contributes to their health, rather than making them feel isolated.

First and foremost, architects may face an abundant amount of pressure as they are forced to travel at times for certain projects that they undergo, and/or oversee. Not only that, but there hours may vary, as well as shift, between daytime and nighttime, as they extensively plan around necessary deadlines that must be met by the client  As a matter of fact, according to Campus Explorer, “approximately 1 in 5 architects work longer than 50 hours per week”.

In addition, architects spend most of their time within an office, as they discuss plans with clientele, but shift when they visit the job site, and/or location, in order to make sure the project is going according to plan. For, they have to ensure the client’s needs, and/or vision for the project, are met. That’s why they visit the site because through doing so they can make sure that no problems have arisen, and/or no obstacle has presented itself to affect the deadline of the project.

Furthermore, if a project is running behind schedule the architects hours may vary, causing longer work days to take place in the process. As a result, this can cause underlying stress for that individual, due to the pressure that comes with the tasks he/she must undergo, as he/she tries to play catch up. Therefore, as with anyone, stress can cause that person to resort to drugs and alcohol as a way to release the negative emotions he/she is feeling.

However, through doing such, they may find themselves dependent on the substance, which will in turn trap them, via. addiction. As a result, that addiction can destroy the life on any individual who continues to use drugs, and/or consume alcohol. It could cause an architect to be delayed, and/or late on the projects that they are taking part in, and affect his/her personal life, as well as his/her career.

In conclusion, architects, and those of various other professions, struggle with addiction on an ongoing basis—based off of the stress and pressure that they undergo within their career. However, many look for a quick fix, rather than solving the problem at hand—right at its source. Therefore, one must be careful to handle the stress and the pressures that they feel at work, home, or both, in a healthy way, rather than turning to certain coping mechanisms—such as substance abuse.

Architects can have very full, rewarding lives. Architecture is a dignified career that garners a great deal of respect. It can, however, be a stressful career that can easily overwhelm a person who is not properly prepared for it. The expectations of and demands on professional architects are exceptionally high. The building concepts they create have to be of the best quality in order to satisfy the expectations of their clients and to protect the safety of the people who use the structure. When careers in architecture become difficult or the personal lives of architects become strained, it can lead to addiction and substance abuse. When a professional architect is struggling with severe addiction, they need to submit to treatment for the sake of their personal and professional lives. Professional architects should be aware that addiction rehabilitation programs exist for creative professionals like themselves.

At an addiction treatment center, or a residential rehab, professional architects will go through a detoxification process, considering that it is a substance they are addicted to. Those addicted to a process do not require a detox. Detoxification includes medications that help flush toxins from the system, as well as reduce the stress and danger of withdrawal symptoms. It is highly recommended that people do not go through a detox alone because symptoms can arise that require medical attention. Instead, seek the services of a detox center or rehabilitation center.

After the detox period, the professional architect will receive psychological treatment that will eradicate the root cause of their addiction. If the architect chooses a treatment program that caters to business and creative professionals, they will work with staff and counselors who are familiar with the demands of these professions. They will assist their recovery enormously because the people doing the treatment will understand the workings of their minds. After this period of psychological coaching, counseling, therapeutic activities and healthy recreation, the individual will be prepared to re-enter the world, and will receive ongoing support to succeed.

Architects are well respected professionals who create the facilities that facilitate a wide variety of human endeavors. Their work is very important to the way that humanity functions. However, architects are people with very unique minds that can be taken in by addiction or substance abuse when their life circumstances push them toward it. Work stress is one common reason that architects experiment with addictive substances and activities. Another reason is merely due to an architects experimental nature. Almost every architect has an experimental side because they have a creative side, and the two largely go hand in hand. The substances and activities that architects are most frequently addicted to are:

• Alcohol. This commonly abused substance is used the world over to reduce stress and reduce difficult emotions. It can work very effectively, which is why it is the most addictive substance in the world. Architects certainly encounter their share of stress and pressure, which can lead to abusing alcohol for a short amount of time or a long amount of time. Architects can also have strained personal lives due to the volume of hours they work, which can lead to addiction and substance abuse as well.
• Street drugs. As was mentioned above, every architect has a creative, experimental side. They rely on their experimental nature when they are creating the concept for a structure. However, when this experimental side of an architect’s personality is not kept occupied, it can get them into trouble. Experimentation is the most common reason a person tries a street drug and becomes addicted to it.
• Sex addiction. In a similar vein as drug addiction, sex addiction is also frequently brought about through an experimental nature. Architects can become sex addicts by pursuing a sexual fascination to the point of being hooked. A sex addiction can also be about comfort. Some people, including architects, are taken in by a sex addiction because it serves as a security blanket to them.

Architecture is an exciting and rewarding career. People who have strong right brain abilities and strong left brain abilities often do very well in architecture because it makes use of their creativity as well as their linear planning abilities. However, despite architecture being a very desirable career field, it is an industry that can put a great deal of stress on its professionals. Architects are met with high expectations such as long work hours and heavy responsibilities.

Expectations are high on architects. Architects will always be in demand because humans will never stop building structures. However, there is a shortage of architects in the industry, which puts professional architects in high demand. This keeps them working around the clock to deliver models and designs to clients. Architecture is an exacting profession, meaning it is intended for the most careful kinds of perfectionists. The level of perfection that is expected from architects is astronomical, increasing the pressure on their shoulders.

The level of responsibility that comes with a career in architecture is also astounding. Architects are the initiators of responsibility for the foundation, support and sturdiness of a structure. If their design is flawed, nothing else in the creation process will be functional. That means the safety of every person who is ever inside the structure or nearby it is their responsibility. This is why architects go to school for a minimum of six years to study every detail of designing buildings.

A great many professional architects state that they love their profession, however, the pressures and expectations are too heavy for some. Many fall away from architecture when they get a taste for how demanding it can be, while others suffer more and more the longer they stay in the industry. Professional architects may end up with mental disorders or addiction problems due to levels of stress they encounter in their careers.

Architecture is a fascinating and necessary industry that attracts brilliant minds, but many people are unaware that it can come with some very stressful responsibilities that drives architects to abuse substances and become addicted. Addiction and substance abuse among architects is not uncommon, it can have very serious negative impacts on their personal lives, their careers and their relationships. Like any high-profile profession, an architect will damage their professional reputation if their addiction or substance abuse becomes out of control. And like any relationship, the people in their lives will suffer by being close to addictive behavior.

Alcohol, illegal drugs and prescription drugs are common substances abused by struggling architects. Alcohol is the depressant most commonly abused by people who are suffering from professional stress due to its appealing emotional numbing effect. Architects face incredible challenges and stress on the job, such as the possibility of designing an unsafe structure, or the ramifications of said challenge. They are under tight deadlines and must balance enormous responsibility with high expectations on them. High level architects have teams of workers beneath them whom they are responsible for as well, adding to the pressure on top of them.

Architects who are struggling with addiction or substance abuse are in need of professional help, and fortunately, there are addiction treatment programs tailored specifically to working professionals and intellectual career holders. At an executive rehab, clients are given the respect that a seasoned working professional deserves, as well as the best in high quality addiction treatment. Many lower level rehab programs are geared toward people who lead lives of less complexity, and the program managers are not equipped to understand how a professionally advanced mind works.

Rather than waste time in an addiction treatment program that is not right for your personality or lifestyle, explore your options in the world of executive rehab. In an executive rehab program, care is taken to restore both your physical and your mental health back to you, all the while working around your professional demands and time commitments. Executive rehab is the obvious answer for addicted or substance abusing professional architects.