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We spend a significant portion of our time with coworkers, making it easier to notice when something seems off, including potential drug use. In fact, over 60% of adults report knowing someone who has come to work under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Before taking any drastic steps or reporting your concerns to human resources, it’s essential to be sure that substance abuse is actually occurring. Since many health conditions can present symptoms similar to those of drug abuse, it’s crucial to rule out other possibilities, like insomnia. Gaining a deeper understanding of drug addiction and its effects can help you make a more informed decision.
Signs of Drug Abuse
Identifying potential signs and symptoms of substance abuse is important, but it’s also valuable to consider the underlying causes and stressors that might trigger such behavior. Common factors contributing to substance abuse include work or personal stress, financial difficulties, divorce, bereavement, health issues, or new medications. These circumstances can lead someone to drink more, misuse prescription drugs, or experiment with illicit substances.
Substance abuse can manifest through various workplace problems, serving as indicators of a potential issue.
Some workplace-related signs of substance abuse may include:
- Accidents or injuries, whether to the individual or others
- Decreased productivity
- Theft or unexplained losses
- Aggressive or violent behavior
Additional warning signs can involve:
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Rapid mood swings
- Increased irritability
- Frequent absences or tardiness
- Difficulty explaining certain actions
- Recurrent accidents
- Persistent fatigue

The Impact of Drug Use in the Workplace
Drug use doesn’t just affect the individual involved; it can also have serious repercussions for coworkers and the business as a whole, including financial losses. According to the University of Massachusetts, substance abuse costs U.S. businesses an estimated $100 billion annually.
Steps to Take if You Suspect a Coworker is Using Drugs
Unaddressed substance abuse in the workplace can create costly and potentially dangerous situations. If you suspect that a coworker or employee may be under the influence, there are several steps you can take:
- Document Concerning Behaviors: Start by noting any behaviors that seem unusual or alarming.
- Consult a Supervisor: Share your observations with a supervisor to help verify any suspicions you may have.
- Report to Higher Management: If the situation warrants, you may need to escalate the issue to a higher authority.
- Approaching the Coworker Directly: If you prefer a more personal approach, consider reaching out to the individual. However, be cautious, as this may provoke a negative reaction.
Given the potential risks associated with confronting a coworker or employer directly, seeking assistance from a third party could be the safer route.
Creating a Drug-Free Workplace
Although substance abuse can pose a challenge in the workplace, employers can take proactive steps to foster a drug-free environment.
- Educational Programs and Policies: Implementing educational initiatives and clear drug-free workplace policies can help raise awareness and prevent drug use.
- Pre-Employment Drug Screening: Introducing mandatory drug tests for all new hires can serve as a preventative measure.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are another valuable resource, offering work-based services like assessments, counseling, and referrals. EAPs aim to address a range of issues impacting employees’ mental and emotional well-being, including substance abuse, stress, family issues, and psychological disorders.
While EAPs can provide initial support, individuals with severe substance use problems may require a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Employees
While establishing a drug-free workplace and utilizing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can offer some short-term support, the most effective approach for achieving long-term sobriety is often through an inpatient or outpatient drug and alcohol treatment facility.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient or residential treatment, is one of the most comprehensive forms of drug and alcohol rehabilitation. It involves 24-hour care at a facility where patients undergo both detoxification and behavioral therapy to help them achieve and maintain sobriety. Detox is the first step, enabling patients to safely withdraw from substances under medical supervision.
Along with detox, patients participate in various behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to identify triggers and develop strategies to prevent relapse.
Outpatient Treatment
After completing inpatient treatment, patients are often referred to outpatient programs to continue their recovery journey. Similar to inpatient care, outpatient programs offer a variety of individual and group therapy sessions aimed at supporting the ongoing treatment plan.
Although outpatient treatment typically follows inpatient care, it can also serve as an initial treatment option. Outpatient programs usually involve three sessions per week, scheduled flexibly to accommodate other commitments, such as work. This approach allows individuals to continue their employment while attending therapy sessions a few times a week. Despite its flexibility, inpatient treatment may still be more effective for some due to its intensive nature.

Next Steps
Whether opting for inpatient or outpatient treatment, rehabilitation remains the most effective solution for overcoming substance abuse issues. While Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can offer short-term support, they do not match the effectiveness of a dedicated drug and alcohol treatment facility. If you’re interested in learning more about how a recovery center can support someone struggling with addiction, consider reaching out to Sunrise Recovery.
Sunrise Recovery is a drug and alcohol treatment facility located in Indiana, providing high-quality care close to home, so individuals can receive the help they need without completely disrupting their lives. To learn more about how Sunrise Recovery can assist, visit our website or contact our admissions team today.