By working hard to create a culture that supports recovery, businesses will benefit from a healthier, more productive workforce.
The average person spends a third of their life at work. With this amount of time spent with our fellow employees and company leaders — no matter where we work — it has become crucial for companies to implement a range of programs that address the wellness of their employees. Among these programs, those that address addiction prevention are becoming some of the most important, with over 28 million Americans admitting to an alcohol abuse disorder and 25.4% of illegal drug users having a use disorder.
By implementing effective addiction prevention and support programs for employees, companies cannot only enhance workplace morale and overall productivity but, also save lives.
Corporate responsibility and substance abuse
To promote overall employee well-being and maintain a safe and productive workplace, company leaders have some responsibility to address issues of substance use and abuse among their employees. Companies may have a significant role to play in this era of increased drug use and an epidemic of overdoses from drugs such as fentanyl. By being open about company wellness initiatives and the importance of employee wellness, companies could use their influence to prevent and manage substance use and abuse among their workforce.
Companies need to start with comprehensive workplace policies that address substance use. These policies should include protocols for dealing with employees who may come forward with abuse concerns.
Education, detection, and support
Along with robust corporate policies, education and training need to be a part of the conversation surrounding addiction prevention and substance abuse. Education, awareness, and training are essential components of any corporate policy. Through regular awareness programs for employees at all levels, education seminars, and training regarding how to approach the issue of abuse among the workforce, businesses can not only talk the corporate responsibility talk but walk the walk.
Companies can distribute information about substance use risks or host workshops about healthy wellness options and alternatives to substance use. Training for employees can include how to address substance abuse issues among their team members, and leaders should be especially aware of how to spot the signs of substance abuse. Signs such as unexplained disappearances or absences, increased workplace accidents, or noticeable deterioration in an employee’s appearance or hygiene can all point to substance use issues. Leaders should know how to spot these to give employees timely referrals for treatment resources.
Anyone grappling with addiction will need support, whether it is through rehabilitation resources, a connection to an addiction-specific group, or just an open ear.
Benefits that support recovery
It is a new era, and businesses that are interested in supporting the overall wellness of their employees should have processes in place that support those who find themselves with substance abuse issues.
Businesses should focus on creating a supportive environment that addresses addiction and recovery issues with empathy and not punitive measures in mind. With the destigmatization of addiction and recovery on the rise, businesses that provide clear, supportive policies will see that their employees are far more engaged and reliable and report greater job satisfaction.
Additionally, businesses can focus on helping people avoid addiction before it begins by offering a good work-life balance, robust leave policies, and stress management techniques and options that employees can implement at work and home. It also may go without saying that company insurance policies should cover addiction recovery so people feel they can afford to seek treatment.
By working hard to create a culture that supports recovery, businesses will benefit from a healthier, more productive workforce. Not only will this help their employees live better lives, but the business could see a reduced turnover rate, fewer injuries and accidents, and a reduction in healthcare expenses overall. Through supportive policies and approaches, companies fulfill their corporate social responsibility and cultivate a healthy, strong workforce.
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