One of the characteristic signs of substance abuse disorder (SUD) in the workplace is the deterioration of workplace performance. The cognitive, emotional, and behavioral impairment that results from drug or alcohol use can affect productivity, morale, and even the safety of other coworkers. 

The cost of addiction in the workplace is usually measured financially, but it can also refer to more subjective losses, which can change the entire nature of an office. For example, substance abuse can lead to absenteeism, tardiness, accidents, theft, and errors in judgment. 

It can also create an atmosphere of mistrust and fear and interfere with team dynamics and communication. In addition to the direct effects on employees, substance abuse can also damage relationships with customers and clients. 

Employers must be aware of the signs of substance abuse in the workplace and have policies and procedures to address this problem.

Prevalence of Individuals With Substance Use Disorder in the Workplace

SUD in the workplace is a growing concern in the United States. A recent study estimates that SUDs cost American businesses over $81 billion annually in lost productivity, absenteeism, and substance abuse-related health care costs.

SUD in the workplace is not only costly to businesses, but they also pose a serious public health and safety risk. Yet, despite these risks, there is still a great deal of misunderstanding about SUD in the workplace and how best to address them.

To better understand SUD in the workplace, researchers have proposed a model that identifies three factors that significantly impact substance use in the workplace: 

• Perceived availability of alcohol and illicit drugs

• The extent to which an individual's coworkers use or work while impaired by alcohol or drugs (descriptive norms)

• The level of approval by coworkers of workplace alcohol/drug use or working while impaired/ intoxicated (injunctive norms)

This research suggests that substance abuse prevention efforts in the workplace should focus on reducing the availability of drugs and alcohol, changing social norms around substance use, and increasing disapproval of substance use in the workplace. 

Industry-Specific Statistics

It is well-documented that SUD is more prevalent in certain industries. For example, a recent four-year national study found that rates of problematic alcohol use were highest among those in the mining (17.5%) and construction (16.5%) industries.

Workers in the food services industry had the highest reported rates of illicit drug use (19.1%) and SUD (16.9%). However, it is not just the substance abuse rates that are important, but also the industry-specific drinking patterns. 

This is because they are indicative of work environments and coworker norms. For example, researchers have found that food service workers report higher rates of coworker acceptance of workplace substance use.

Similar social network effects have been found in other industries as well. Therefore, it is important to consider the substance abuse rates and the industry-specific drinking patterns when examining substance abuse in the workplace.

Workplace Effects

In addition to the general health and wellness problems associated with alcohol and drug abuse, SUD has many implications specific to employers. Alcohol and drug use have a negative impact on worker productivity, whether the use occurs off the job or on. 

Workers with SUD are also more likely to be involved in a workplace accident, leading to higher insurance rates and compensation claims. Therefore, employers must be aware of the signs and symptoms of SUD to address them effectively. 

Early intervention and treatment can help to prevent SUD from escalating and causing further damage to the individual and the workplace.

Signs of Substance Abuse

Signs of substance abuse in the workplace can be subtle or overt. Employees who suffer from SUD may exhibit several different behaviors that set them apart from their colleagues. They may avoid social interaction or become increasingly withdrawn and irritable. Additionally, substance abusers may start to make mistakes at work or show up late for shifts. 

If you notice any of these behaviors in a coworker, it may indicate that they are struggling with substance abuse. If you suspect that someone you work with has SUD, many resources are available to help them get the treatment they need.

Support for Workers and Families

Many workplaces sponsor employee assistance programs (EAPs) that offer short-term counseling or assistance linking employees with drug or alcohol problems to local treatment resources, including peer support/recovery groups. 

In addition, therapeutic work environments that employ drug-abusing individuals who can demonstrate abstinence have promoted a continued drug-free lifestyle and improved job skills, punctuality, and other behaviors necessary for active employment throughout life. 

Urine testing facilities, trained personnel, and workplace policies that are substance abuse prevention-focused are essential for managing SUD in the workplace. 

Resources and Support 

Next Level Recovery Associates offers an array of concierge support services to help you or someone you love navigate substance abuse in the workplace. We connect individuals with individual coaching, recovery associates, case management, and interventions. With the proper support, recovery is possible.

Substance use disorder (SUD) in the workplace is costly, often leading to absenteeism, a decrease in productivity, and an increase in on-the-job accidents. In some cases, SUD in the workplace effects may even lead to legal action being taken against the company. SUD in the workplace also takes a toll on employees, who may suffer from lower job satisfaction and performance, or experience anxiety and depression. Effects of substance abuse in the workplace can have a ripple effect on families and communities as well. For example, children of parents with SUD may suffer from neglect or abuse, and SUD can lead to crime and violence in communities. Workplace substance abuse can have a devastating effect on businesses, families, and communities, but help is available. Next Level Recovery Associates can help you design a recovery plan that makes sense. Contact us today at consult@nextlevelra.com.