Substance abuse in the workplace is a growing concern for employers across the United States. Substance use disorders (SUD) cost American businesses over $81 billion each year, and that number is only going to continue to grow if something isn’t done about it.

SUD can lead to a number of negative consequences for businesses, including increased absenteeism, low morale, and turnover rates. In fact, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that substance abuse costs the US economy $250 billion per year in lost profits. That’s an astounding amount of money!

Substance abuse in the workplace can lead to a number of consequences for businesses, including increased absenteeism and turnover rates. Businesses who want to prevent this type of loss should take action now by implementing prevention strategies that address SUD at work before it becomes an issue later on down the road.

The impact of substance use disorders (SUDs) is felt well beyond just those with addiction – they also affect their families, friends, and communities as well! Substance Abuse In The Workplace: Substance Abuse Prevention Resources For Employers By Heritage CARES Substance abuse in America costs companies billions of dollars each year due to lost productivity from absenteeism or poor performance while working under influence but it doesn’t stop there because many employers are unaware of this problem because of its hidden nature.

Americans struggling with a substance use disorder continue to hold down a job. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), more than 70% of those abusing illicit drugs in the U.S. are employed, the majority of which are categorically binge drinkers. In addition, the most commonly abused illegal drugs on a job site are marijuana and cocaine.

While substance abuse can be defined as the habitual use of a substance for non-medicinal reasons, substance misuse is defined as using legal or illegal substances in any way that puts a person at risk. Substance misuse also encompasses taking medication in ways not approved by a doctor or without one’s knowledge; mixing alcohol and/or drugs with prescription medication, and using over-the-counter medications in excessive or dangerous quantities.

It’s important for employers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of substance abuse, as it can lead to decreased job performance, tardiness, absences, and even accidents on the job site. Substance abusers will often exhibit one or more of the following changes in their appearance, behavior, and work performance:

  • Chronic lateness to work
  • Poor work performance
  • Appearing tired and disinterested in work duties
  • Receiving poor performance reviews
  • Changes in physical appearance, such as wearing inappropriate or dirty clothing and a lack of interest in grooming
  • Mood swings, paranoia, and/or irritability
  • Altered behavior, such as an increased desire for privacy
  • Bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils

What can employers do? Implementing a confidential and comprehensive program like Heritage CARES can help address SUD within your workplace. Heritage CARES is a digital care platform that offers evidence-based treatment to address substance abuse at work. The Heritage CARES program utilizes state-certified Assertive Community Engagement (ACE) Specialist- peer coaches. ACE coaches receive training via the Heritage CARES training academy; this academy empowers coaches by teaching them how to identify which interventions are present in the community and how to connect people with resources.

Heritage CARES offers employers a confidential and comprehensive program that their employees can access on-demand from any internet-accessible device. Our CARE platform allows employers to address SUD in a safe and effective manner and offers employers an effective way to address SUD within their workplace with a confidential and comprehensive program that employees can access without fear of judgment or repercussions.

If you’re an employer who’s concerned about SUD in your workplace, Heritage CARES may be the perfect solution for you! To learn more about our program or to get started, please visit our website or contact us today. We’d be happy to answer any of your questions!

To learn more about Heritage CARES, visit our website or call us at 877-62CARES (22737)