“What is addiction, really? It is a sign, a signal, a symptom of distress. It is a language that tells us about a plight that must be understood.”
– Alice Miller
More than 70% of those abusing alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs in America are employed.
Because of that, drug abuse and addiction cost American companies $81 billion every year.
Substance abusers are
33-50%
Less productive
(National Institute on Drug Abuse)
30-35
Days absent per year
(U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
3x
More likely than non-users to be late for work
(U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
3-4x
More likely to have an accident on the job
(Employee Assistance Society of North America)
5x
More likely to file a workers’ compensation claim
(Employee Assistance Society of North America)
21%
Workers report being injured or put in danger, having to re-do work or cover for another employee, or needing to work harder due to others’ drinking
(JSI Research and Training Institute)
Know the Signs
Most addiction sufferers hide their drug use from employers and coworkers. However, there are many signs of probable abuse in the workplace. For example, do you have employees who:
- Behave differently from their colleagues in crucial ways
- Avoid co-workers
- Irrationally blame others for personal mistakes
- Openly talk about money problems
- Have a decline in personal appearance or hygiene
- Complain of failing relationships at home
- Take time off for vague illness or family problems
(Signs of Workplace Drug Abuse and Addiction taken from https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/workplace/)
Know the Signs
Are you struggling with addiction or know someone who needs help, but not sure where to turn or what to do next? Recognize the signs by answering a few questions.