Millions of employees use alcohol or illegal drugs while on the job. Substance use is bad enough when it occurs in one’s free time. But addiction begins taking over the workday, and the consequences—for the individual and for society—become even more apparent.
If you or a loved one are participating in drug use in the workplace, call Vertava Health at 844.470.0410 today. Our rehab programs for professionals help individuals overcome addiction and get back on track.
Why Drug Use at Work Is So Dangerous
If you or a loved one are participating in drug use at work, it means the addiction is severe. If a person is using substances at work, it means they likely cannot stop on their own. Likely, this equates to a dangerous level of addiction that could lead to overdose or death.
Drug use at work is also dangerous because:
- Affects judgment and increases the risk of on-site accidents
- Employees who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol can make poor decisions, leading to serious injuries–to themselves and others
- Drug use can lead to decreased motivation, punctuality issues, and an overall decrease in productivity
- It can lead to increased conflict with coworkers, supervisors, and customers
- There is a higher risk of stealing or committing fraud to support the addiction
The good news is that with the right support, those struggling with drug use in the workplace can learn to live a life free of addiction.
Signs Of Drug Use In The Workplace
When it comes to signs of drug use in the workplace, the symptoms vary depending on the type of substance being used. Common physical indicators include:
- Red eyes
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
- Unusual odor on clothing or breath
- Mood swings or sudden changes in behavior
- Sleepiness or exhaustion during working hours
Other signs of drug use may include:
- Decrease in performance or productivity
- Frequent absences, tardiness, or leaving work early
- Decreased accuracy or increased number of errors
- Increased arguments and conflicts with coworkers, supervisors, and customers
- Increased forgetfulness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating
If you are a concerned coworker or supervisor, look out for any of these signs that might indicate someone may be using drugs. It is important to remember that addiction is a serious illness, and it takes professional help to break the cycle of substance use in the workplace.
Treatment Options Exist
Many businesses are beginning to offer treatment options and prepaid benefits packages specifically for employees struggling with addiction. Employee assistance programs (EAPs)offer a variety of services, ranging from short-term counseling to referral systems for enrolling employees in rehab centers. This is a welcome trend—just as society at large is learning to see drug addiction as a treatable disease rather than a crime to be punished. Manu employers now see the value in getting help to drug-addicted employees rather than simply firing them on the spot.
Treatment options typically include:
- Inpatient or residential treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation therapy
- Group counseling and support groups
- Behavioral therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Nutritional counseling and exercise programs
- Vocational and educational support
At Vertava Health, we offer a range of treatment options designed to help individuals overcome addiction and lead productive, meaningful lives.
Vertava Health Is Here To Help
At Vertava Health, we understand the serious effects of drug use in the workplace, and we are committed to helping individuals and their families find recovery. Our professional rehab programs focus on the individual’s unique needs. We offer compassionate, evidence-based care and cutting-edge therapies designed to help individuals regain their health and well-being.
If you or a loved one are struggling with drug use in the workplace, we are here for you. Contact Vertava Health at 844.470.0410 today to learn more about our treatment options and take the first step toward recovery.
