When employees abuse alcohol, it can have a profound influence—not only on the affected employee but on the organization in which they serve. If you suspect that an employee has an alcohol addiction, you’ll want to address it with care.
Go into the situation understanding that addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. The way you address an employee’s struggle with alcohol can significantly influence their desire to seek alcohol abuse treatment. And if the employee has a desire to get help and change, your sensitive handling of the situation can help create a supportive work environment to aid them on their recovery journey.
Here are seven steps to support employees facing alcohol addiction while maintaining a productive and healthy workplace for all employees.
1. Recognize The Signs
The first step in addressing alcohol addiction is identifying the symptoms. Employees may exhibit changes in behavior, such as erratic mood swings, decreased productivity, frequent absenteeism, or difficulty concentrating. Physically, they might show signs like:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Tremors
- Smell of alcohol on their breath
- Unsteady walking
- Obnoxious laughter and loud talking that is out of character
- Excessive use of gum, mints, or mouthwash
- Avoiding contact with supervisors, especially after lunch breaks
- Sleeping on duty
While these signs alone may not confirm alcohol abuse, they provide grounds to explore the situation further.
2. Create a Safe Environment
Workplace safety is your top priority so make sure that your employee is not jeopardizing others. Beyond that, create a safe space for your employee by addressing the topic with sensitivity. Keep the conversation private, and approach the employee with compassion and concern. Offer assistance without judgment. Your conversation should focus on support and solutions.
You can refer them to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which can provide counseling, treatment referrals, and ongoing support.
3. Offer Access to Resources
Employees should have access to counseling services, addiction recovery centers, and medical support. Consider integrating a comprehensive wellness program that includes education on the effects of alcohol use, stress management, and other wellness initiatives that could help prevent future challenges. Creating a network of resources allows employees to feel supported in taking steps toward recovery.
4. Implement and Enforce Workplace Policies
Given the potential of alcohol to impair an employee’s judgment, make sure to set up clear policies about drinking on the job or coming to work drunk. Set up a clear schedule for drug and alcohol testing with punishments attached. Clear policies ensure that employees understand the repercussions of alcohol use and that supervisors know how to handle policy violations.
While addressing inappropriate alcohol use head on, make sure to have clear guidelines for helping an employee get the support they need. Employees must feel comfortable asking for help without fearing retaliation or stigma.
5. Foster a Supportive Culture
A workplace that fosters open communication and support can have a powerful impact on recovery. Leaders should model empathy, respect, and understanding, particularly when an employee returns to work after seeking treatment. Consider creating a return-to-work plan to ensure a smooth transition. The plan could address the employee’s hours and workload so that they don’t get overwhelmed as they rejoin the team.
Ask yourself what kind of culture you would want. Everyone faces personal battles and needs support in their workplace. While alcohol abuse is often frowned upon with a negative stigma, refrain from handling the situation with shame. Fostering a supportive workplace can help all employees feel brave enough to seek help.
6. Promote Education and Prevention
Educate all employees about the risks associated with alcohol use and offer training on how to recognize signs of addiction. This can embolden employees to seek help early and reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol abuse. It can also empower coworkers to offer support when needed. Regular training helps create a culture of empathy, where seeking help is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
While you can’t implement these measures overnight, you can gradually create programs that help prevent alcohol abuse, help employees support those in need, and open the door to addiction recovery.
7. Be Patient and Empathetic
Recovery from alcohol addiction is a long-term and challenging process. Be patient and empathetic, acknowledging that setbacks may occur. Be a helping hand in your employee’s journey, offering ongoing support and celebrating small and big successes.
Sometimes, having someone caring and supportive in your corner is the spark of motivation needed to push through on tough days.
Supporting employees with alcohol challenges requires a balance of empathy, firmness, understanding, proactiveness, and professionalism. By offering resources, providing a supportive work environment, and implementing clear policies, organizations can help employees address their struggles and regain their health and productivity. Taking these steps not only improves the employee’s well-being but also strengthens the organization’s overall health, ensuring a supportive, respectful workplace for everyone.
If your employee is ready to seek treatment, they can contact our alcohol treatment centers near St. George or Salt Lake City (Utah) or Burley (Idaho). We can help people recover from alcohol addiction and reenter the workplace stronger than ever.
Infographic
Alcohol abuse among employees can greatly affect both the individual and the organization. If you suspect an employee has an addiction, it’s crucial to handle the situation thoughtfully. This infographic provides seven steps to support employees facing alcohol addiction while maintaining a healthy and productive workplace.
