How to Spot Addiction in the Workplace

Addiction is a sensitive issue that can often remain hidden, yet it can have serious consequences for both the individual and the workplace. In a professional environment, addiction doesn’t only affect the person struggling but can also impact team dynamics, productivity, and the company’s culture. 

As an employer, manager, or colleague, it’s essential to understand the signs of addiction to provide support and help before the issue becomes more serious. Here are some of the subtle signs to watch for, and how to approach someone dealing with addiction with empathy and care.

1. Changes in Work Performance

A noticeable and often early indicator of addiction in the workplace is a sudden or gradual decline in work performance. You might see:

• Decreased productivity: Employees may start missing deadlines, producing lower-quality work, or seeming distracted and unfocused on tasks.
• Increased absence: Frequent illness, arriving late, or leaving early without clear reasons could be a sign of addiction.
• Unexplained errors: Addiction can impair cognitive function, leading to more mistakes, oversights, or a lack of attention to detail, which may not have been an issue before.

2. Behavioural Changes

Subtle but significant changes in behaviour can also be a red flag. If someone is acting out of character, it may be worth paying attention:

• Irritability or mood swings: Addiction can cause emotional instability. Someone struggling with substance abuse or other addictions may exhibit increased irritability, anxiety, or depression.
• Social withdrawal: An employee who was once social and engaged might begin to isolate themselves, avoid team meetings or social events, or appear disconnected.
• Defensiveness or secrecy: If a person becomes defensive when asked about their work or personal life, or becomes evasive or secretive, this could be a sign of addiction.

3. Physical Signs of Addiction

Physical signs of addiction may be harder to spot, but there are common indicators to look out for:

• Changes in appearance: Addiction can result in noticeable physical changes such as weight fluctuations, neglecting personal hygiene, or a generally unkempt appearance.
• Dilated or constricted pupils: Depending on the substance being abused, you may notice physical changes like dilated pupils (often associated with stimulants) or constricted pupils (a sign of opioid use).
• Frequent sniffing or alcohol breath: Employees may also display symptoms like frequent sniffing or have a strong smell of alcohol, which can indicate drug or alcohol use affecting their professional behaviour.

4. Frequent Accidents or Injuries

Addiction, particularly to substances like alcohol or drugs, can impair concentration, coordination, and decision-making. As a result, individuals may have more accidents or injuries at work. Watch for:

• Increased accidents or near-misses: Employees with addiction issues may have more workplace accidents or be involved in situations where safety protocols are neglected.
• Complaints of physical pain: If an employee frequently complains of injuries or aches, especially in ways that seem inconsistent or related to their ability to concentrate or move efficiently, it could indicate the effects of addiction.

5. Deterioration of Professional Relationships

Addiction can also take a toll on relationships in the workplace. Someone struggling with addiction might start to face challenges in working well with others. Pay attention if:

• Conflict with colleagues: Employees with addiction may become more argumentative or defensive, leading to conflict with coworkers or supervisors.
• Loss of trust: If the person begins to exhibit patterns of dishonesty or a general decline in reliability, colleagues might lose trust in them, which could impact team cohesion.

6. Vague or Unclear Explanations for Behaviour

People dealing with addiction often try to hide it, so they may offer vague, inconsistent, or rehearsed excuses for changes in behaviour. Keep an eye out for:

• Inconsistent stories or alibis: Addiction can drive someone to lie or create excuses to cover up their actions, making their explanations appear inconsistent.
• Blaming external factors: An employee may begin to blame personal problems, stress, or work-related issues for their behavioural changes, avoiding addressing the root cause.

How to Approach the Issue

If you suspect that someone in your workplace may be dealing with addiction, it’s important to approach the situation carefully, with empathy and respect. 

Here are some steps to consider:

1. Observe Without Jumping to Conclusions

Before taking any action, observe the individual’s behaviour over time. Addiction often involves a gradual pattern, so one-off incidents may not be enough to conclude someone is struggling.

2. Offer Support, Not Judgement

When you approach the person, try to do so with compassion and without making them feel judged. Express your concern for their well-being, rather than focusing solely on their performance or the negative impacts on the team. This approach will make them feel safer and more open to discussing their issues.

3. Provide Resources and Support

Many organisations offer Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) or other support services that can help employees struggling with addiction. If your workplace offers these services, encourage the employee to make use of them. Be supportive in suggesting these resources and assure them that help is available when they’re ready to seek it.

4. Maintain Confidentiality

It’s important to respect the individual’s privacy. Addiction is a deeply personal issue, and any discussions or interventions should be handled confidentially to avoid creating further stress or embarrassment for the person involved.

The Importance of a Supportive Workplace Culture

Creating a supportive, understanding workplace culture can make a significant difference for employees who are struggling with addiction. If your organisation fosters a culture of openness and provides access to mental health resources, employees may feel more comfortable reaching out for help before their addiction causes serious consequences.

Training managers and HR teams to recognise the signs of addiction and promoting a workplace that encourages well-being can prevent situations from escalating and allow employees to seek the support they need sooner.

Many businesses across Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire are unaware of the impact that drug and alcohol addiction has on their staff, however in England there are an estimated 602,391 dependent drinkers with only 18% receiving treatment.

If you are an employer or colleague of someone you think may be suffering with addiction, A Better Tomorrow are here to help. We can provide you with advice and support to be able to help your colleague through the referral process and beyond. 

Get in touch with us today.