BLOG

Roughly 1 in 10 workers in the USA reported employee addiction issues or substance abuse on the job according to a new study by the American government. The results of this study is alarming because it shows that an average of 10% of the employee population in America is either under the influence or struggling with addiction while they are performing work related tasks. U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Pamela Hyde explained “Substance use issues pose an enormous risk to the health, safety, and productivity of American workers. Every segment of the community needs to help tackle this problem, including employers. By developing and actively promoting workplace programs such as Employee Assistance Programs for helping employees deal with substance use problems, employers can significantly improve the health, well-being, and productivity of their employees.”

Workplace testing to identify substance abuse and employee addiction has increased considerably in the last decade, however many employees continue to use despite the risks to their positions and their careers. Employers who offer early identification and treatment programs for their employees and who are proactive tend to see lower rates because of these efforts. Treating individuals with addiction early on can prevent further problems and help promote safety in the workplace. Some companies work with employees who admit a problem with substance abuse, offering treatment and continued employment as long as the individual follows the rules and is trying to get help for their problem. Some sectors and industries have seen increases in substance abuse among employees while other sectors and industries have seen a decline in these rates.