Drug use in the workplace is a surprisingly pressing issue in America. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 70% of the approximately 22.4 million Americans who use illicit substances were employed in the workforce either full time or part-time. In addition, more than 75% of heavy drinkers and nearly 80% of adult binge drinkers are employed either full or part-time.
It may be unsurprising, then, that illicit substances are easily accessible in many workplaces; approximately one-third of employees are aware of the fact that drugs are being illegally sold in their workplace. This prevalent availability, coupled with the widespread use of drugs in workplaces, can create an extremely dangerous situation for employees and employers.
Approximately 10-20% of workers who die on the job were found to have drugs or alcohol in their system at the time of their death. Employees who use or abuse substances in the workplace are also likely to struggle with productivity, turn in poor performances, and show up late or miss excessive amounts of work, among other things, all of which can impose significant financial costs on their employers.
Drug testing and educational programs have been found effective at reducing use and improving morale, but if you have reason to believe that one of your employees is suffering from a substance addiction, you should try to help them get treatment as soon as possible.
The Asana Recovery Center offers a comprehensive detoxification and residential treatment program for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. To learn more about our programs and facilities, call (949) 438-4504 today.
