Substance Abuse in the Workplace: Recognizing the Signs and Offering Support

Substance abuse in the workplace is an issue that business owners, managers, and HR professionals cannot afford to ignore. According to the National Safety Council, more than 70% of individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) are employed, making it a workplace challenge that directly impacts productivity, safety, and employee well-being.
For businesses in Peachtree Corners and beyond, understanding how to recognize signs of substance abuse and fostering a supportive workplace environment can lead to healthier employees, lower turnover rates, and improved overall company performance. In this article, we’ll explore how substance abuse affects businesses, the signs to look for, and actionable steps to support employees struggling with addiction.

The Impact of Substance Abuse in the Workplace

Substance abuse doesn’t just affect the individual—it has far-reaching consequences that impact business performance, workplace safety, and company culture.

1. Productivity and Performance Decline

Employees struggling with substance use disorders may experience:

• Increased absenteeism or frequent tardiness
• Decreased work performance and focus
• Poor decision-making or risk-taking behaviors
• Difficulty meeting deadlines and completing tasks

A study by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence found that employees with untreated substance abuse issues are more likely to change jobs frequently and have higher rates of workplace accidents.

 

 

2. Workplace Safety Risks

Industries that involve manual labor, transportation, or machinery operation are particularly vulnerable to substance-related incidents. Impaired employees may:

• Exhibit slower reaction times
• Make critical errors in judgment
• Pose risks to themselves and others

Even in office environments, an employee under the influence can compromise cybersecurity, financial accuracy, and workplace harmony.

3. Financial Costs to Businesses

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, substance abuse costs U.S. businesses more than $740 billion annually in lost productivity, healthcare expenses, and legal fees.
Beyond the direct financial impact, businesses may also experience:

• Higher healthcare costs due to increased medical claims
• Elevated workers’ compensation claims
• Legal liability issues if an impaired employee causes harm

Recognizing the Signs of Substance Abuse in Employees

While employers should never assume or accuse an employee of substance abuse without clear evidence, knowing the warning signs can help managers provide early intervention and support.

Behavioral Indicators

• Uncharacteristic mood swings or irritability
• Declining performance and lack of focus
• Unexplained absences or extended breaks
• Frequent financial troubles or borrowing money
• Avoidance of supervisors or colleagues

Physical Signs

• Bloodshot eyes or constricted/dilated pupils
• Slurred speech or unsteady coordination
• Tremors, excessive sweating, or noticeable weight loss
• Smell of alcohol or drugs on clothing

Professional Red Flags

• Missed deadlines or incomplete assignments
• Disregard for safety protocols
• Sudden changes in social behavior (isolation or conflicts)
• Increased accidents or near-miss incidents

How Employers Can Support Employees Struggling with Substance Abuse

Addressing substance abuse in the workplace requires a compassionate, structured, and legally compliant approach. Here’s how businesses can take proactive steps to support their workforce:

1. Implement a Clear Substance Abuse Policy

A well-defined policy should:

• Outline the company’s stance on substance use
• Specify drug testing procedures (if applicable)
• Define disciplinary actions and available support programs
• Offer guidelines on confidentiality and employee rights

Companies should ensure that policies comply with federal and state laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which may offer protections for employees seeking treatment.

2. Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential support, counseling, and referral services for employees struggling with substance abuse. Businesses should:

• Promote EAP resources regularly so employees know help is available
• Encourage managers to refer employees to EAPs rather than take punitive action immediately
• Consider partnering with local mental health and addiction recovery centers and community resources

3. Foster a Supportive Workplace Culture

Creating an environment where employees feel safe discussing personal challenges is crucial for early intervention. Employers can:

• Normalize conversations around mental health and addiction
• Train managers to approach the topic with compassion and discretion
• Encourage peer support networks or mentorship programs

4. Provide Workplace Training on Substance Abuse Awareness

Regular training sessions for employees and leadership teams can:

• Educate staff on recognizing signs of substance use disorder
• Offer guidance on non-confrontational intervention techniques
• Teach employees where to seek help if they are struggling

5. Support Employees Seeking Treatment

Rather than terminating employees who come forward about their struggles, businesses should:

• Offer flexible leave options for those seeking treatment
• Work with HR and legal teams to develop return-to-work plans
• Connect employees with local rehabilitation centers which specializes in individualized treatment programs for professionals (flexible scheduling)

Preventing Workplace Substance Abuse Before It Becomes a Crisis

While intervention is essential, prevention strategies can help businesses minimize the risk of workplace substance abuse.

1. Encourage Work-Life Balance

Burnout and workplace stress are key contributors to substance abuse. Employers can reduce stressors by:

• Allowing flexible work schedules
• Encouraging the use of paid time off
• Providing wellness programs that promote mental health

2. Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Instead of fostering a “work hard, play hard” culture that may encourage excessive drinking or drug use, businesses can:

• Offer on-site wellness programs, such as yoga or meditation
• Provide mental health days and stress-relief resources
• Support healthy team-building activities that don’t revolve around alcohol

3. Partner with Local Mental Health Resources

Developing partnerships with local treatment providers allows businesses to offer employees immediate access to professional help. Some organizations specialize in substance abuse treatment tailored for working professionals. 


 

Final Thoughts: Creating a Workplace That Supports Recovery

Substance abuse in the workplace is a complex issue, but businesses have the power to make a difference. By recognizing the signs, implementing supportive policies, and promoting a culture of mental wellness, employers can help employees regain control of their lives while strengthening the organization as a whole.
For businesses in Peachtree Corners and beyond, supporting employee wellness isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic investment in company success. By taking proactive steps today, businesses can create healthier, more resilient workplaces for the future.
 
 
Author Bio
 
 
 

 
Jason Price, COO of Atlas Behavioral Health
 
Jason is a proven businessperson, with many years of experience across environmental resources and behavioral health. Now as founder and COO Of Atlas Behavioral Health, he leverages his expertise in both business and healthcare to spearhead a groundbreaking approach to addiction treatment. Through innovative programs and compassionate care he has a mission to change the landscape of behavioral health and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives free from addiction.