According to a recent government report, nearly one in ten full-time workers in the U.S. has a problem with drugs or alcohol. Of the 14.8 million people using illicit drugs in the U.S., an estimated 70% have jobs. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCAAD) reports that employee alcohol and drug abuse costs American employers an estimated $81 billion per year.
According to the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) workers who use drugs and alcohol are less productive than their colleagues:
- They take three times as many sick days
- They’re five times more likely to file worker’s compensation claims
- They’re more likely to injure themselves or others
- Workers’ productivity may also be affected by hangovers, withdrawal, and preoccupation with obtaining or using substances at work
Prevention Works
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, when substance abuse is addressed in the workplace through clear and comprehensive programs, successful interventions and outcomes are greatly increased. In fact, studies of the economic impact of substance abuse treatment have found significant improvements in job-related performance including decreases in absenteeism, problems with supervisors, mistakes in work and on-the-job injuries.
If you’re looking for drug and alcohol interventions or education in your workplace, contact Shareen Leland at New Bridge Foundation® Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center: (866) 772-8491 .
