HIGH-fliers who hit the bottle to help them through their stressful working days are being targeted by a Hampshire hospital.

The Priory Hospital Marchwood has launched a new advertising campaign aimed primarily at high-performing alcoholics in the financial services industry.

David Nott, addictions treatment manager at The Priory Hospital, said: "In a knowledge economy, businesses are only as strong as the people they employ - yet workers in the financial services sector and allied professions are put under enormous pressure to perform at peak levels.

"Almost four million British workers are dependent on alcohol.

"High performing alcoholics appear to be successful - professional, hard-working, super competent - while hiding the extent of their problem from colleagues, families and friends."

Therapists at the private hospital say many high fliers worry about their jobs, lifestyles and their unhealthy reliance on work for feelings of self-esteem and self-worth.

The Priory Hospital Marchwood, which opened in 1987, treats patients suffering from a wide range of mental health problems and addictions.

Famous clients have included soccer star Paul Merson, who was weaned off his cocaine addiction, and troubled entertainer Michael Barrymore who was treated for nervous exhaustion.

For more details, contact Jo Filmore on 023 8087 7519 or visit www.prioryhealthcare.com