The Department of Labor has released statistics on substance abuse in the workpl

Question

The Department of Labor has released statistics on substance abuse in the workplace. Some of the findings include: The available data continue to indicate that substance abuse has a significant impact in the workplace, with costs estimated at over $100 billion annually. Data show that: Seventy-one percent of illegal drug users are employed. Alcoholism causes 500 million lost workdays each year. Drug and alcohol-related problems are one of the four top reasons for the rise in workplace violence. Of those who called the cocaine helpline, 75 percent reported using drugs on the job, 64 percent admitted drugs adversely affected their job performance, 44 percent sold drugs to other employees, and 18 percent had stolen from co-workers to support their drug habit. A study conducted by the Institute for Health Policy, Brandeis University, found substance abuse to be the number one health problem in the country, resulting in more deaths, illnesses, and disabilities than any other preventable health condition. What do you think is the best strategy for addressing the problem of substance abuse in the workplace? Justify your response.

Explanation / Answer

Substance abuse is a problem that affects many people throughout the world. This is a problem that causes loss for the company in terms of healthcare, turnover, productivity, etc. There are many ways through which the problem of substance abuse can be addressed at a workplace:

The best strategy for addressing the problem of substance abuse are Implement a substance-free workplace as well as having a Health plans, wellness programs, etc. in workplace. Implementation of substance-free workplace leads to 20-30% reduction of substance abuse due to instilling of fear of being fired or losing some good points at the workplace. Employers should condemn the idea of substance abuse at their workplace. Implementation through education, rules, and policies will bring about changes in the workplace.

As for those who are already in, and are in need of help for getting out Health plans, wellness programs, etc. will help. The employers should combat stigma against seeking help and make confidentiality a priority for those seeking help. Knowing that their company is taking active interest in the health and wellbeing of their employees, and are lending a helping hand helps motivate employees suffering from substance abuse to go through their treatment or therapies happily and with confidence. This will help those who are seeking help to readily seeking advice and make up their minds to changing their life.

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