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Addiction in the Workplace

Addiction costs American businesses and organizations an average of $81 billion in lost profits every year. This is due to losses in productivity, high turnover rates, theft in the workplace, increases in absenteeism, utilization of sick time, decreases in quality of work and poor or negligent customer service. 

While drug and alcohol can cause chaos and disruption, that's not the end of the story. Companies can address this issue head-on and help their executives, employees, managers, and supervisors move forward into happier, healthier, and more productive lives.

More than 70% of individuals with alcohol or illicit drug use continue to maintain employment, as many employees with alcohol or other drug problems can continue to remain “functioning.” Companies and organizations can no longer ignore the realities and repercussions of alcohol and other drugs in the workplace.

“Functioning” employees are costly in many ways.  When unaddressed, alcohol and other drug use disorders in the workplace are costly and dangerous for organizations, as well as individuals. There are many good examples of successful programs and resources available that can help, and with over 22 million Americans currently in recovery from alcohol and other drug use disorders, creating a drug-free workplace is entirely possible.

The likelihood for workplace accidents skyrockets when employees are under the influence.  Drinking or using drugs on the job can also lead to aggravated assault and battery charges.

Other side effects of alcohol and drug use at work can include:

• Withdrawal symptoms affecting job performance
• Inability to focus or concentrate while under the influence
• Needless risk-taking affecting the company's reputation
• Illegal sales of drugs and other illicit activities to co-workers and potentially customers
• Those who abuse drugs or alcohol are not the ones affected in the workplace.  Friends, family members, and co-workers report mental stress at work as well 

There are many ways in which employers can create a drug-free work environment. Employers can educate themselves and employees on not only identifying the signs and symptoms of alcohol and drug use, but also the necessary steps to take when one suspects that a coworker may need help. Through education and clear drug-free workplace policies, employers can aim to increase awareness and clarify expectations.

Warning Signs of Alcohol or Drug Use in the Workplace

While alcohol and substance abuse in the workplace can sometimes be obvious, often times it is not.  There are few warning signs to look out for that can sometimes indicate someone is struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol. 

• Drowsiness or falling asleep
• Increased mistakes
• Takes an unusually long time to complete commonplace tasks
• Repeated disappearance, multiple trips to the bathroom or other places to use drugs
• Extreme mood swings
• Increased tardiness or absenteeism
• Missed deadlines or appointment

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