Employees and Addiction: An Addiction Guide for Employers

Employees and addiction: Addiction is a complex issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, including the workplace. When an employee struggles with a substance abuse disorder, their life can spiral out of control, and doing their job well becomes difficult. As an employer, severely punishing an addict can feel like kicking someone while they are down.

It is essential to recognize addiction as a health issue rather than a moral failing or lack of willpower. It is a chronic condition characterized by the compulsive use of substances or engaging in behaviors despite adverse consequences. Addressing addiction in the workplace requires a compassionate, non-judgmental approach that prioritizes employee well-being.

Employers can play a crucial role in assisting employees struggling with addiction by fostering a supportive environment, implementing appropriate policies, and providing resources for treatment and recovery. By doing so, not only do they contribute to the overall well-being of their employees, but they also create a more productive and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive.

At GateHouse Treatment, we are committed to helping individuals struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs) get well, not only for their sake but for the lives of everyone around them. This blog will inform employers about how to approach employees and addiction, offering practical strategies, legal considerations, and tips on fostering a supportive culture.

Addiction Guide for Employers Lesson #1: Creating a Supportive Environment

If your employees do not trust you, they are unlikely to reveal their struggles until the situation becomes untenable or even fatal. Many companies tout that everyone is part of a “family.” Just as an employee is responsible for performing their duties well, companies must foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges and seeking assistance when needed.

When navigating addiction at the workplace, it’s essential to make sure there are friendly and welcoming ways for employees to express themselves when they are having a hard time. You can ensure open communication through regular check-ins, anonymous feedback channels, or dedicated HR support.

Fostering a workplace culture that prevents stigmatizing employees with addiction issues can ensure a healthy and productive employer-employee relationship. Recognize that addiction affects people from all walks of life and offer support without prejudice, replacing judgment with empathy and understanding.

Addiction Guide for Employers Lesson #2: Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

EAPs for addiction are workplace-based programs that support employees dealing with substance abuse or addiction-related issues. These programs are one of an employer’s best tools, providing needed assistance while helping employees and their families during difficult times. Here are some key features and benefits of EAPs for addiction:

• Confidentiality: EAPs maintain strict confidentiality to ensure employees feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgment or negative consequences. Confidentiality helps to reduce stigma and encourages employees to access the support they need.
• Counseling and Therapy: EAPs often provide access to professional counselors or therapists specializing in addiction-related issues. Employees can receive counseling sessions to address the underlying causes of addiction, develop coping strategies, and receive ongoing support.
• Treatment Resources: EAPs can help employees navigate the complexities of addiction treatment by providing information about available programs, facilities, and resources. They may assist in finding appropriate treatment options based on the employee’s location, insurance coverage, and specific needs.
• Relapse Prevention: EAPs can offer ongoing support and resources to help employees prevent relapse after completing treatment. This aid may include follow-up counseling, support groups, or access to relapse prevention programs.
• Education and Training: EAPs often provide educational materials, workshops, or training sessions to raise awareness about addiction, its signs and symptoms, and the available resources for help. By educating employees, EAPs contribute to the overall understanding and reduction of stigma surrounding addiction.
• Work-Life Balance Support: EAPs recognize that personal challenges, including addiction, can impact an employee’s work performance and well-being. These programs help manage work-related stress, improve work-life balance, and address other factors contributing to addiction.
• Crisis Intervention: In situations where immediate assistance is needed, such as an overdose or substance abuse-related emergency, EAPs can offer crisis intervention services. This help may involve providing direct support, connecting employees with emergency services, or facilitating necessary hospitalization.

Addiction Guide for Employers Lesson #3: Legal Protections for Employees and Addiction

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), addiction is recognized as a disability when it substantially limits one or more major life activities. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to employees seeking treatment or in recovery.

Reasonable accommodations are modifications employers make to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their job duties effectively. While the ADA does not require accommodations that would impose an undue hardship on the employer, these modifications are reasonable for individuals with addiction:

• Medical leave for treatment
• Flexible work schedule
• Temporary workload reduction
• Return-to-work plans

Employers should consult legal experts and check with federal, state, and local laws regarding disability accommodations to ensure compliance and provide appropriate support for employees with addiction.

Addiction Guide for Employers Lesson #4: Building a Culture of Wellness

Building a culture of wellness starts at the top. Train managers and supervisors on recognizing signs of addiction, approaching employees empathetically and referring them to appropriate resources. When first addressing concerns about an employee’s wellness, avoid adversarial posturing. Addicts can sometimes spiral into worse behavior out of shame, but having an employer treat them kindly can make them feel loved and understood. You can implement wellness programs focusing on overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These activities could include fitness classes, social outings, or employee support groups.

The most important part of dealing with an addicted employee is empathy. Stigma creates a culture of shame and fear, making it difficult for employees to admit they have a problem and seek help. This delays or prevents individuals from accessing necessary treatment and support, exacerbating the negative impact of addiction on their lives and potentially affecting their job performance. Remember that the employer-employee relationship is also a human bond; extending a friendly hand during this challenging time could save their life.

GateHouse Treatment and Addiction

Employees struggling with addiction should be encouraged to seek professional help. At GateHouse Treatment, we approach addiction holistically, addressing the symptoms, underlying causes, and overall wellness of someone struggling with substance abuse. We offer top-of-the-line outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs with counseling and support to help individuals attain sobriety.

We also offer several innovative treatment options which let an individual feel empowered and take control of their body. Alongside our partnered sober homes, GateHouse Treatment offers the perfect environment to recover and live a healthy life.

Dial (855) 448-3588 or contact our website for a free consultation.