Many individuals who suffer from substance use disorder may seem like successful, happy individuals. However, addiction affects more than just the person themselves, it also affects the people around him or her. It is important to know how to recognize and address addiction in the workplace to maintain the productivity of the business and welfare of your employees.

Signs of Addiction in the Workplace

Absenteeism

Once a person develops a dependence on a substance and they go a length of time without it, they may experience withdrawals. Withdrawals can be so powerful and sickening, that the person may place getting their drugs as a top priority, leading to frequent absences from work. These absences will either be unexplained or will come with a variety of excuses. They may also take frequent, long bathroom breaks and consistently arrive late to work.

Productivity

An employee suffering from addiction may have fluctuating work performance characterized by missing important deadlines, becoming increasingly forgetful, and being lethargic while at work. Their work efficiency may decline for a period of time, and to make up for this decline, they will suddenly have an extremely productive and effective work ethic.

Behavior

You may notice behavioral changes, such as mood swings. These manifest in highs where an employee is upbeat and conversational with co-workers, as well as lows where they may be irritable and stressed.

Approximately 6 out of 10 people who struggle with substance use disorder also have a co-occurring mental health disorder. Some of these symptoms may include frequent changes in mood, a lack of appetite, or lower levels of productivity. If you see an employee begin to show any of these signs of substance abuse, there are ways that you can help.

Ways you can Help

Offer a Solution

Always approach the employee in a compassionate manner. Let them know that you have a genuine concern and that there are resources available for help. If the person suffering feels like you are passing judgment about them, they may not be receptive to the help you have to offer.

Many drug treatment facilities offer outpatient rehab, where patients can attend therapy for a few hours 2-3 days a week, enabling them to continue to work. It can be difficult to balance therapy with a full-time work schedule, so it can be helpful to offer flexible schedules to individuals who are willing to take steps to get themselves healthy. It is important to maintain a supportive environment. Remember that they are going through a hard time and could benefit from a little patience and understanding.

Emotional Support upon Returning to Work

Understand that this person may not be able to “just stop” abusing drugs without outside help. For some, an inpatient rehab center may be the best route for treatment, because they may need medical detox and physical separation from drugs. It is also important to keep conversations confidential between an employee and HR. Employees are less likely to seek help if they feel like a target.

When the employee has completed inpatient treatment and returns to work, they should be treated like any other employee. Don’t single them out or make them feel less than.

At the same time, they should be treated with love. In order to maintain a productive work environment, employees should lift each other up and make each other feel valued. Respect this person’s boundaries if they need to step outside for a few minutes or attend a recovery meeting during their lunch break.

Drug addiction can be a life or death situation. As humans, it should be our moral code to help one another. To create a workplace that is safe and supportive can allow your employees to seek help for their addiction and stay sober.