For many of us, the use of alcohol and, increasingly, marijuana is an acceptable way to kick back, relax, and be with friends. Occasionally, overindulgence might result in embarrassment or a hangover. Many people learn their limits from these experiences and avoid repeating such behavior. Many of us have heard someone say, “I am never drinking again,” after a particularly rough night. However, some ignore or forget these lessons, and their heavier use continues and may worsen. For others, their experience with alcohol or a drug feels "life-changing," creating a desire to replicate that feeling consistently. Either scenario can escalate into problematic use or addiction. 

When recreational use becomes heavy use or binge use, the consequences usually multiply. Heavy consumption is linked to increased risks of motor vehicle accidents, poisoning (overdose), job loss, legal issues, and physical violence, including intimate partner violence and sexual assault. Tragically, these risks can sometimes lead to death. The consequences of use depend on the substance. For example, narcotic and opioid abuse accounts for approximately 70% of overdose deaths, while 13,524 lives were lost in drunk driving accidents in 2022 alone. 

Continued use despite a range of negative consequences signals the onset of dependence, where the individual no longer seeks the substance to feel good but now uses it to avoid feeling worse or experiencing withdrawal symptoms. 

Workplaces regrettably and reluctantly play a crucial role in identifying and addressing substance use issues. 

For employers that do reasonable suspicion, post-accident, or random drug testing, an employee's failure on a test can be a wake-up call. While the employee may not be addicted, their behavior has led to a crisis that demands action. Referral to the organization's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) creates an opportunity for assessment and recommendations for education or treatment. For some, education and the experience of testing positive may be enough to change their behavior and reduce their risk of addiction. Others may require treatment, which involves lifestyle transformation from substance use to sobriety. This transition, while challenging, can be enormously life-enhancing.  

Relapses are a common part of recovery from any chronic illnesses, including addiction. Follow-up testing can provide critical external motivation for maintaining sobriety. Over time, this external accountability can foster the internal motivation necessary for long-term recovery and a sober lifestyle. 

Workplaces focused on safety that approach substance use with accountability and compassion can make a significant difference. By providing employee drug and alcohol education, supervisory training regarding signs and symptoms of impairment, and promoting the EAP, employers can help employees navigate the path from crisis to recovery. Creating an environment that prioritizes health and safety while offering support ensures that employees feel valued and empowered to make positive changes. 

ScreenSafe provides employee education, supervisory training on reasonable suspicion determination, and a turnkey, affordable solution for workplace drug testing. ScreenSafe provides clients with comprehensive reporting every month.