Substance abuse can be debilitating to those who are suffering from it. It can also negatively impact those around them. In the workplace, it can be a detriment to productivity and the overall work environment. If a coworker is struggling, it is natural to want to help them. But addressing addiction in any context is tricky.

When addressing substance abuse in the workplace, it is important to remain both professional and compassionate. Here are some tips on how to support a coworker who is struggling with this.

What is Substance Abuse?

The first step toward identifying substance abuse is understanding it. It can be defined as dependence on or excessive use of any substance. A substance does not need to be illegal for it to be considered substance abuse.

For example, prescription medications and alcohol are both legal but are often the cause of substance abuse problems.

Tips for Supporting a Coworker with a Substance Abuse Disorder

If you have identified the signs of substance abuse in the workplace, here are some tips on how you can support your coworker in need.

Address Concerns Compassionately and Professionally

It can be especially challenging to address addiction in the workplace because it is a professional setting. If you plan to raise your concerns with a coworker, it’s important to maintain a balance between professionalism and compassion. Focus on their work performance or the changes in their behavior as it pertains to the work environment.

At the same time, be sure to frame your message as one of concern. Let them know that you are looking out for their well-being and are willing to provide help if needed.

Avoid Enabling Behavior

It can be natural to want to protect a coworker who appears to be struggling. However, these protective instincts can sometimes lead to enabling behavior. For instance, if a coworker is frequently absent, making excuses to cover for them can enable their behavior.

Instead, be firm and honest about your coworker’s behavior and their potential addiction. This can help them to realize that they need help sooner rather than later.

Paid Time Off for Treatment

Employers can also support employees who are struggling. One of the ways to make that possible is to allow paid time off for substance abuse treatment. Stress and stigma are often two major factors that prevent people from seeking treatment for addiction. By providing paid time off for treatment, employers can greatly reduce both of these obstacles.

Provide Coverage for Sessions with a Counselor

Employers can also take their support one step further by providing coverage for treatment. Many employee healthcare policies have been updated in recent years to include mental health, which includes issues relating to substance abuse.

Employers can help employees by covering the costs of treatment. Sessions with a trained counselor can be one of the most valuable resources in overcoming addiction.

Combating Substance Abuse in the Workplace

At Soteria, we are committed to helping employers build and maintain healthy, drug-free work environments. Educating the workforce about addressing and handling concerns about the workplace addiction is a crucial part of that philosophy. Soteria also provides reliable, trustworthy drug testing, which is one of the best ways to maintain transparency and confidence when keeping the workplace drug-free.

Read about our services or contact us to learn more about how Soteria can help your business, or order a test today.