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Beach House Rehab Center » Blog » Recognizing Signs of Substance Abuse in Your Workplace
Despite the stereotype of the unemployed addict, the vast majority of people with substance abuse problems have full-time jobs. Choosing to drink or get high on the job can have severe consequences for every employee, not only the user. How can you spot if a colleague is drinking or using drugs at work, and what should you do if you recognize any warning signs of substance abuse in your workplace?
If you manage or work closely with someone, you might notice some distinct changes in their behavior that could signal they’re coming to work drunk or high, or that they’re abusing substances during the workday.
Most workplaces have implied anti-drug policies in place, and some even conduct random drug screenings. However, if your workplace doesn’t already have a written policy prohibiting on-the-job substance use, consider implementing one. Remember to specify the policy’s purpose, your expectations for your employees and the consequences of workplace substance abuse, including termination.
By stating each of these three things explicitly, companies provide their employees with unambiguous guidelines about drug use in the workplace. If workers understand the reason behind the policy and what will happen if they break the rules, they’ll know that being high or drunk during the workday could cost them their job.
If you suspect a colleague is under the influence at work, or if someone you directly supervise comes to you asking for help with a drug or alcohol problem, the first step is to document the issue. Next, ensure your human resources department is aware of the problem. Your HR team can meet privately with the employee to explain any assistance programs available through company-sponsored health insurance, and how to use the provisions of the Family and Medical Leave Act to protect their job while they seek qualified addiction treatment.
Hiring a friendly, approachable and supportive leadership team who take time to make each employee feel valued can go a long way toward creating a corporate culture that promotes a substance-free environment. Stress is almost always a factor in any workplace, but you can take steps to reduce its impact by giving people the time, space and resources they need to do their job.
The American work ethic prioritizes a constant push to get ahead. However, the outdated notion that hard work is its own reward only causes burnout and chronic stress. That’s why another essential thing you can do to prevent workplace substance abuse is to encourage anyone dealing with mental health challenges to get help. For example, if your resources allow, let everyone on staff take a monthly mental health day to focus on their self-care. Ensure this day doesn’t count as part of any personal time off they’ve earned. People who are struggling need compassion and grace, not a slap on the wrist for not being productive enough.
At our quiet beachfront reserve, Beach House provides a clinically excellent approach to addiction recovery, paired with a caring culture and an industry-leading client-to-therapist ratio. To inquire about help for you or someone you love, contact us today.
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