Substance Use Disorders

Workforce substance use is a broad concept that encompasses substance use by employed individuals both inside and outside of the workplace. Workplace substance use involves the consumption of substances during the workday and can also include using substances outside of the workplace in a manner that adversely affects one’s ability to perform one’s work duties. Workplace substance use is often associated with decreased work attendance and lower job performance, costing the US economy billions of dollars each year. To offset these costs, companies have looked toward ways in which to promote healthy lifestyle choices and to provide options for early substance use interventions for their employees. In response, employee assistance and workplace wellness programs have been growing in popularity. However, more research is needed to understand their impact on substance-related outcomes. The workplace can also become a setting for substance use related interventions and referral to specialized treatment services. This chapter explores substance use in the workplace, including the adverse consequences of workplace substance use and how company policy and health programs have the potential to reduce its negative impact.