Substance abuse is a significant problem in the United States. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 19 million people in the United States age 12 or older have a substance abuse disorder. This problem affects people from all walks of life, and it can be challenging to overcome.
There are several different substances that can be abused, including alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs. Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances, and it can be very addictive. Prescription drugs are also widely abused, and they can be very dangerous if taken in combination with other medications. Illicit drugs such as heroin and cocaine can be very addictive and cause serious health problems.
The effects of substance abuse can be devastating both physically and emotionally. People addicted to drugs or alcohol often lose their jobs, their homes, and their families. They may also experience health problems as a result of their addiction.
Substance abuse can also lead to crime, and it can be challenging for people to break the cycle of addiction.
If you have an employee experiencing substance abuse, there are a few things you can do to help them.
Talk to Them Normally
Most people think that people with substance abuse require a special kind of handling, but this isn’t the case. The best thing you can do is talk to them usually and let them know that you’re there for them.
It’s also good to have good active listening skills. They are likely undergoing some stress in their life, and they may not be able to express what’s wrong. So if you can listen to them and try to understand what they’re going through, it will be a big help.
Be Supportive
It’s essential to support an employee who is struggling with substance abuse. This means being understanding and patient. It’s also necessary to offer support in the form of resources and information. You can also provide a listening ear when they need someone to talk to.
However, don’t force this support in their faces. If they don’t ask for it, then don’t give it. The best support you can provide to them is to keep their job and let them handle them in their way.
Encourage Treatment
If an employee is ready to seek treatment, encourage them. There are many experienced substance abuse treatment centers in the United States, and all you have to do is lead them to one. These centers can ensure that they get the help they need to recover.
Moreover, it’s good to offer them certain financial benefits for these treatments. You don’t have to outright pay for the treatments, but you can give them a raise or offer to pay for a portion of it.
However, if an employee is not ready to seek treatment, don’t force them. They must make this decision on their own. Forcing them can only lead to further complications.
Help Them Get Back on Their Feet
After an employee has completed treatment, it’s time to help them get back on their feet. This means helping them find a job, housing, and anything else they may need. You can also offer them financial assistance if they need it.
It’s also essential to provide them with a support system. This can be in the form of family, friends, or co-workers.
A support system can be beneficial for someone recovering from substance abuse. The system can provide them with emotional support and practical support. It’s essential to have a strong network of people who will be there for them when they need it.
Family and friends are excellent sources of support, but it’s also essential to have a professional support system. This can be in the form of a therapist or a substance abuse counselor.
Both of these professionals can help them recover and provide them with the tools to stay sober.
Get Help From HR
If you’re struggling to deal with an employee with substance abuse, it’s crucial to get help from your human resources department. They will have the experience and knowledge to deal with this situation.
They can also offer you support and guidance. For example, they can help you figure out what to do next if you’re feeling overwhelmed. You can also consult counselors and other professionals to help you deal with this type of situation.
Substance abuse is a severe problem, but it’s one that you can handle with the proper knowledge and tools. By following these five steps, you can help an employee struggling with substance abuse.
