Alcohol dependency, drug addiction and the road to recovery

“Alcohol or drug (AOD) problems are a significant health burden in the UK population, and understanding pathways to remission is important.” That’s the opening line from the UK National Recovery Survey which found 5% of the UK population, or 2.7 million people, would define themselves as having overcome an alcohol or other drug problem.

Alcohol or drug problems can be a significant burden to businesses too, impacting productivity, posing safety risks and causing potential reputational damage. So, as September is officially Recovery Month, the Occupational Health experts at YourGP discuss the importance of creating a supportive workplace environment where those in recovery can thrive.

Fight the stigma and remove the barriers to recovery

The road to recovery can be a long and difficult one, so it is important that anyone overcoming alcohol or drug problems is made to feel comfortable enough to ask for help, as and when they need it. That includes in the workplace.

Some employees may hesitate to reach out for support for fear of judgment – that they may be treated differently, passed over for promotion or let go completely. Employers therefore must play a proactive role in fighting this stigma.

Here are five key ways you can do so:

1. Raise awareness: Addiction is a complex health issue, often deeply intertwined with mental health disorders and trauma. To help your team better understand the issues of dependency and recovery, provide training and education sessions to dispel myths and misunderstandings.
2. Encourage open conversations: Employees should feel safe to share their personal experiences without fear of being judged or the threat of repercussions. Make time for regular check-ins with employees where they can bring up any concerns.
3. Lead by example: Employers should aim to create a culture of understanding, compassion and sensitivity. These qualities should be central to all communication.
4. Make reasonable adjustments: Be prepared to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace to support the employee on their recovery journey. This could include allowing time off so they can attend assessments, treatment or rehabilitation, offering flexible working hours, or temporarily changing their workload or responsibilities.
5. Think of the bigger picture: Take a step back and assess the role of alcohol in your business. Do your employees feel pressure to attend after-work drinks at the pub to show they are a team player, for example? And is there a more inclusive way you could mark the festive season, other than the traditional alcohol-fuelled office Christmas party? It is essential that you are sensitive to the needs of those in recovery when planning these kinds of team activities.

Speak to the OH experts at YourGP

Businesses can play a key role in supporting employees on their road to recovery and it is vital that you get it right. If you would like more information about how the Occupational Health experts at YourGP could support you and your employees, call us on 0131 381 0322 or email occhealth@your.gp and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you and your work schedule.