New research shows 75% of employers have workers affected by struggles with opioids
30% of workers have family members with opioid misuse and addiction problems
30% of employers have employees who have missed work due to opioids
22% of employees experience impaired performance due to opioids
18% of employers say they have had employees arrested
and 8% claim to have employees who have overdosed
Given these impacts, it is likely coworkers are the first to know. If you encounter a coworker struggling with opioids let your them know you are concerned for their health. Always recommend professional help for the employee, whether that be their Employee Assistance Program or another source of help like a counseling hotline. Expect your offer of help to be declined at first. However, stay tuned, be available, and they may reach-out to you.