Addiction is one of the most common responses to handling personal and workplace stresses. It’s also one of the most difficult issues for management to handle humanely and compassionately. In this guide, we’ll be more closely examining how a manager can handle addiction issues in the workplace. That includes signs to look out for, conversations to have with employees, and further steps to take beyond testing.

Three Tips on How to Talk About Addiction in the Workplace

Tip #1: Stick to the Facts

If an employee is behaving self-destructively, a confrontational approach may just worsen the underlying feelings and exacerbate that behavior. Start with a direct private conversation with the employee in question. Try starting your observations with phrases like “I’ve noticed…” or “It’s been reported to me that…” Don’t minimize or skirt the issue — be candid and direct.

Tip #2: Keep Expectations Reasonable

You’re a manager, not a substance abuse counselor. It’s not your job to diagnose or treat addiction. In addition, many addicts will make denials or excuses to explain problematic behavior. This is why it’s essential to approach employees with kindness and compassion in confronting their addiction problems. Your employee will be more receptive to a compassionate expression of concern over threats or accusations.

Tip #3: Help and Resources are Available

Whether your employee admits to having an addiction problem, the conversation is a great opportunity to highlight available resources. Let them know what resources your business offers, like mental health support or medical coverage. If the employee does not seem receptive one-on-one, it might make sense to let the whole team know generally. Make sure they know they aren’t alone in facing this daunting recovery.

Drug Addiction in the Workplace: What are the Signs?

Drug addiction in the workplace might not always be immediately apparent. Most likely, you won’t directly witness the employee drinking or using drugs on the job. However, despite their best attempts to mask the usage, there are telltale giveaways of ongoing addiction problems. If you know the signs, you’ll know when to start planning a conversation with an employee.

Signs of Drug Addiction in the Workplace

What sorts of signs should management be on the lookout for in potential drug or alcohol problems? These warning signs can also be related to stress, lack of sleep, or side effects from new medications.

• Repeated patterns of absenteeism, particularly after paydays or on Mondays or Fridays.
• Arriving late to meetings.
• Lowered or diminished productivity.
• Uncharacteristic irritability or emotional outbursts.
• Aggression or strained work relationships.
• Disproportionate or undue overconfidence.
• Increased on-site accidents or near accidents.
• Looking disheveled or refusing to be on camera for online meetings.
• Smelling of alcohol (or trying to mask it excessively with mints.)
• Bloodshot eyes.
• Tremors, or “the shakes.”
• Erratic, irrational, or otherwise poor decision-making.
• Theft
• Bringing bags, coats, or other unnecessary personal effects to the bathroom.
• Missed deadlines or incomplete tasks accompanied with weak excuses.
• Social withdrawal.
• Sleepiness and/or napping at work.

If someone on your team is showing these signs frequently a conversation will be warranted. Make sure to follow your company’s Drug and Alcohol policy in a way that promotes fairness and the employee’s health.

Soteria, Helping Management Handle Workplace Addiction Since 2001

Recovery from drug and alcohol addiction can be a long and difficult process. Thankfully, your employees don’t have to face it alone, nor is management alone in handling these issues. Soteria is here to help your workplace remain a happy, productive, and drug-free one. Soteria’s resources will be invaluable helping to boost empathy and transform the workplace culture. Contact us today for more resources or to schedule a screening for your company.