Substance abuse in the workplace affects both employers and employees with drastic risks to safety, productivity, and reputations. The National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) estimates companies lose $100 billion a year due to alcohol and drug-related incidents.
Take a closer look
- 8% of the American adult and adolescent population is affected by substance abuse disorders
- 75% of people in the U.S. struggling with addiction are employed
- Unintentional poisoning, including drug overdose, was the leading cause of accidental deaths in the U.S. in 2016, surpassing motor vehicle accidents
- Construction, entertainment, recreation, and food service industries have the highest rates of substance use disorders
- 20% of work-related fatality victims test positive for drugs or alcohol
- 40% of workplace fatalities are caused by someone testing positive for drugs or alcohol
Drugs and Alcohol Affect the Workplace as a Whole
- Lower morale
- Accidents
- Thefts
- Increased likelihood of interpersonal problems
- Illicit activities at work such as buying and selling drugs among other employees
- Higher turnover
- Frequent training of new employees
And Make Work Difficult for Employees Themselves
- Poor attendance
- Sleeping on the job
- Poor attention and concentration
- Working while hungover or in withdrawal
- Disciplinary actions
- Accidental injury or death
Workplace Factors can Contribute to Alcohol and Substance Abuse
- Stressful or highly competitive environments
- Boring or isolating positions
- Low levels of autonomy, complexity, or control over work conditions
- Aggressive, verbally abusive, disrespectful, or harassing behavior
- Availability of alcohol
- Food service, construction, mining, maintenance sectors
- Predominantly male workplaces have a higher level of substance abuse for both genders
Signs of an Alcohol or Substance Abuse Problem at Work
- Showing up with hangover symptoms, such as headache, sensitivity to light, and irritability
- Unexplained changes in mood or behavior
- Withdrawal from other coworkers
- Tense or strained interactions with others
- Sleeping while at work
- Decline in overall appearance including bad breath, wrinkled clothes, and disheveled hair
- An unexplained decline in work quality
- An unusual amount of time needed to complete a routine task
- Missing deadlines
- Unexplained disappearances while at work
- Bringing alcohol or substances in a concealed container
- Repeatedly using mints or mouthwash
- Avoiding supervisors
- Frequently calling in sick or not showing up for scheduled shifts
- Frequently absent on Fridays, Mondays, or after payday
What to do if a Coworker has a Problem
We rely on our coworkers for a safe and pleasant work environment. They are our team members and friends. But what happens when we suspect that a coworker is showing up to work intoxicated, or is battling addiction?
Many of us want to defend them and cover-up for their mistakes so that they’re not in danger of losing their job. Unfortunately, this just enables the problem to spiral further. If you believe a coworker may be struggling, it is important to intervene.
If you are close, you may want to have a conversation with them in a neutral setting, and with an empathetic tone. Be prepared to listen and not point fingers. Explain why you are worried. If you don’t feel comfortable having a face-to-face conversation, speak with a supervisor or HR manager.
Akua Can Help<h/3>
Akua offers a range of rehabilitation and recovery programs. From detox to residential and intensive outpatient options, a clinical team works closely with each client to determine the best care for their needs. If you are curious for yourself or a loved one, call 833-258-2669.
