The Rise in Workplace Substance Use Disorders Calls for Compassionate Leaders

The workplace plays a central role in many people's lives. According to the United States Commission on Civil Rights (USCCR), "It has been reported that 10 percent to 25 percent of the American population is sometimes on the job under the influence of alcohol or some illicit drug." 

The prevalence of substance use disorder (SUD) has increased nationwide within the last few years. In many cases, workplace support does not exist to assist people who need help achieving and maintaining sobriety. Next Level Recovery Associates educates communities and business leaders about the effects of substance misuse on the workplace and how best to address the issues in policies and company guidelines.

The Effect of Substance Misuse on the Workplace

Employees who have no support system and reduced access to treatment and recovery resources can cause a decrease in productivity and contribute to conflict in the workplace. Employees and individuals in management roles take their cue from the company guidelines and policies regarding substance misuse. Some workers may struggle to meet their responsibilities if a company does not encourage an empathetic and compassionate response to substance misuse and mental health disorders.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), "Workplace substance use policies and programs promote the health and well-being of employees while reducing behaviors that could negatively affect the quality of work and performance of employees." Company leaders can create a community where employees feel valued. 

Positive workplace culture can limit the following: 

  • Increased risk of accidents or injury

  • Absenteeism and increased time off due to illness

  • Decreased productivity

  • Low morale or toxic team dynamics

Workplace policies and recovery programs can provide employees with referrals to community-based resources and other forms of assistance.

Remote Work and Substance Misuse 

Companies have a responsibility to all of their employees, including remote workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported how critical "it is [. . .] for employers to use additional strategies to engage remote employees in their work and health." Remote workers are at a higher risk of the following: 

  • Anxiety, depression, or mood disorders caused by chronic social isolation

  • Less balanced home-work life

  • Unhealthy eating due to inconsistent work hours

  • Inconsistent sleep schedule

  • Higher stress levels

  • Boredom and mental fatigue

  • Increased risk of developing digital addictions

Being aware of the health risks to remote workers can help inform more mutually beneficial policies to ensure high productivity within a work environment that encourages self-care and positive mental health. 

Leading With Empathy and Compassion 

Leaders who approach the employees under their care with empathy and compassion can create a culture that values individuals and their experiences within the workplace. Being kind, compassionate, and inclusive in the way you treat employees can have the following health benefits for individuals with SUD and mental health issues: 

  • Lower stress levels

  • Decreased risk of anxiety and depression

  • Increased positivity and self-esteem

  • Lower blood pressure

Employees will work better as a team if every person receives the same level of respect and consideration. 

Making a Personal Connection 

Good intentions are not enough for company leaders and management teams. Making policy changes without personally connecting with the affected individuals can potentially cause more harm than good. Understanding employees' daily struggles while in recovery and the unique challenges they encounter in the workplace should inform how the company supports them and their families.

You can make a personal connection with every employee by doing the following:

  • Asking for honest, anonymous feedback about workplace changes they believe would benefit their physical and mental health

  • Taking action to address issues before they become systemic

  • Having work events that allow for low-stress social interactions between workers and the leadership team

  • Prioritizing personal connections and a healthy work-life balance for remote workers

  • Providing training and education to the leadership team about the realities of addiction and recovery

The Importance of Positive Policy Changes 

Making policy changes that address issues related to mental health and recovery from SUD can improve the relationship between workers and management. According to the CDC, "Workplaces are a critical point of contact for Americans struggling with or recovering from a substance use disorder." 

The article states, "Ideally, workplaces will provide individual, family, and community support and improve the well-being of workers." Taking steps to provide relevant support and resources for employees and their families will save money for your company and improve overall productivity. 

Advocating for your employees will build trust, loyalty, and motivation to remain with the company and contribute to creating an empathetic and inclusive workplace culture. Next Level Recovery Associates provides various services, including consultations and educational talks, for workplace leaders as well as empolyees.

People struggling with substance misuse often have to choose between providing for their families or getting the help they need to heal. Employers have a unique responsibility and ability to help employees with SUD or mental health issues access relevant and practical resources and support. As a leader within your company, you command a space that allows you to provide education and policy changes to ensure all employees are treated ethically and with empathy. You can choose to make your company a place that promotes loyalty by valuing the health and safety of all employees. Next Level Recovery Associates provides support for company leaders and can offer services that include educational talks and consultations for companies worldwide. Take the necessary steps today to create a more compassionate work environment. To learn more about our services, contact Next Level Recovery Associates at consult@nextlevelra.com