The majority of adults struggling with drug or alcohol addiction manage to hold down jobs. And although most of them reserve their substance use for after work or on the weekends, those whose addictions become severe may also use substances while on the clock. This presents a problem not only for the employee’s work performance but can also spill over into their interactions with coworkers or clients. Addiction treatment for professionals can help them get back in control of their lives, saving their jobs and improving their health and relationships.
If you work in administration or own a business, you know how important it is to have staff who perform at their best. An employee who struggles with addiction or uses substances at work can be detrimental to your company, so helping them find the right addiction treatment for professionals can benefit you both. If you have any questions about managing workplace addiction and how our programs can help, reach out to Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086.
3 Ways to Handle Addiction in the Workplace
Workplace addiction can be a difficult subject, and employers may not know the best way to handle it. Firing the employee may seem harsh, but you also cannot allow the behavior to continue if it affects their productivity and the safety of others in the office. Here are some suggestions for addressing addiction in the workplace:
1. Keep Records of the Employee’s Performance
If you suspect that an employee is struggling with substance abuse, it is best to start keeping records right away. You may wish to track:
- Their absences or lateness
- Any issues with their work performance
- Trouble meeting deadlines or following through on commitments
If you notice any other problems, such as the employee smelling of drugs or alcohol or having arguments at work, you should also keep a record of these instances. This helps to build a case, if necessary, to justify a request for a voluntary drug or alcohol test as well as a referral to addiction treatment for professionals.
2. Speak with the Employee Privately About Your Concerns
Schedule time to meet with your employee in private and have records ready to present to them to back up your concerns. Express your concerns about the employee’s behavior at work and decline in performance and the signs you have noticed that may indicate substance abuse.
Ideally, your company will also have a policy in place that prohibits substance use on-site, which you can also refer to during this discussion. You may also wish to have a human resources supervisor or a union representative with you during the meeting.
3. Connect the Employee with Addiction Treatment for Professionals
If you have an employee who once produced stellar work but whose performance has suddenly declined, you may be concerned, but you do not want to dismiss them. Instead of immediately considering firing a staff member who struggles with addiction, the most compassionate option is to refer them to addiction treatment for professionals. This can also be beneficial for your bottom line as you will not have to recruit and train a new employee to replace them.
Provide the employee with a deadline to seek treatment to overcome their addiction. Let them know the consequences of not following through on treatment, such as dismissal or suspension.
Promises Brazos Valley: Discreet Addiction Treatment for Professionals
At Promises Brazos Valley, we want to help people maintain their employment while getting help for addiction. We understand that losing your job only adds to the stress of being dependent on drugs or alcohol. Our addiction treatment for professionals is discreet, ensuring that you feel comfortable getting the help you need to recover. Call us today at 979.426.0086 whether you seek help for your employees or yourself.