Substance abuse in the workplace presents a major problem for employers, coworkers, workplace safety and family members at home. Of course, these problems also affect the person who abuses the substances. Damages from workplace substance abuse costs the U.S. over $100 billion each year. But what do you do, if someone you care about abuses substances at work?
Problems of Substance Abuse in the Workplace
Substance abuse causes its own problems. But substance abuse in the workplace leads to accidents, absences, production loss and even death for many people each year. These problems include poor decision making, low job performance, quality control issues, lost efficiency, theft, low company morale and negative employee relations. People also suffer lack of focus, illegal activities at work, higher turnover, new employee training, discipline issues and other costs.
People abusing alcohol and drugs at work suffer three times as many missed work days as people not using these substances. They injure themselves more, as well. Finally, people using drugs or drinking at work file five times more worker’s compensation claims.
What Causes Substance Abuse in the Workplace?
Some of the biggest factors leading to workplace substance abuse include a poor company culture, acceptance of drinking or using drugs and workplace alienation. Simply having these substances available on site at the workplace makes problems grow. Not discussing company expectations with employees adds to problems.
Every workplace needs to promote healthy lives for employees. This includes having workplace substance abuse policies in place. Of course, supervisors must enforce those policies for them to work.
Treatment for Employees with Substance Abuse Problems
Specifically, today’s laws making seeking help easier without risk of losing your job. For many people, internal company policies and laws define specific protections for employees with substance abuse problems. Therefore, if you or someone you care about need rehab treatment for substance abuse, consider finding a program with a range of proven therapies and methods.
For example, quality rehab treatment for workplace substance abuse includes:
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Family and intervention services
- Court and hospital services
- Young adult rehab program
In Tampa, Florida, turn to BoardPrep Recovery Center® for help with substance abuse in the workplace. You or the person you care about can get the important help needed, through drug and alcohol rehab for professionals. Call rehab admissions for BoardPrep Recovery Center® now at 866.796.4720 to learn more.
