Of the 14.8 million Americans who use illegal drugs, 70% are employed on a full-time basis.1
Addiction and alcoholism are problems in any industry, and in innumerable workplaces nationwide. While many people with substance use issues try to remain high functioning by balancing their responsibilities with their substance abuse, this can only last for so long. If employees are struggling with addiction and/or alcoholism, they are more likely to take excess sick days or get injured on the job. Because of the dangers to not just your workplace, but your employees, it’s important to recognize signs of addiction in the workplace. Our Boston drug and alcohol treatment professionals at Banyan Treatment Center Massachusetts share signs of addiction in the workplace.
What Are Signs of Addiction in the Workplace?
Many people who are struggling with substance abuse or alcoholism will try to hide their problem while they’re at work. But as their problem worsens, there are signs that may emerge to indicate a problem. Signs of addiction in the workplace include:
- Not showing up on time or at all. An increase in absenteeism or tardiness may indicate that an employee has other issues occurring outside of the workplace. If an always on-time employee is now tardy consistently, there is a problem causing their tardiness. The same goes for absenteeism.
- Mood changes. If an employee who is usually in good spirits is now consistently on a downtick, this can be a sign of substance abuse issues. There are specific mood changes linked to substance abuse: depression, being withdrawn, paranoia, or agitation. If someone is actively using certain drugs, they may be more talkative than usual.
- Physical changes. Changes in appearance may be indicative of a substance abuse. An employee who suddenly loses all interest in their personal grooming may need our Massachusetts levels of care. Additionally, they may exhibit physical signs of current intoxication or drug or alcohol withdrawals. This includes tremors, nausea, shaking, and confusion.
What to Do About Addiction in the Workplace?
If your coworker or employee is struggling with addiction or alcoholism, it’s important to get them help. First, see if your company has partnered with a center for drug and alcohol addiction treatment in Massachusetts. Our center for Boston drug and alcohol treatment has partnered with businesses across a variety of industries to provide personalized drug and alcohol treatment in Massachusetts. We provide industry-specific individualized treatment to help blue-collar workers, white collar workers, and all other employees find their sobriety.
If there’s addiction in your workplace, the addicted individual needs drug and alcohol addiction treatment in Massachusetts. Call 888-280-4763 to get started today.
Source
1. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - Results from the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Summary of National Findings
