Substance Use at Work: Insights and Solutions with Dr. Melissa Cheng
You can create a safety culture that addresses this humanely, compassionately and in return, these workers will reach meaningful sobriety at a much better success rate and be able to come back and be productive members of your team again, and productive members of society.
How does substance use affect the workplace? Dr. Melissa Cheng, an expert in occupational and addiction medicine, sheds light on this pressing issue in 'The Addiction Files'. In this episode, Dr. Cheng unpacks the startling data showing that 9.5% of full-time and 12% of part-time U.S. employees struggle with substance use disorders. The conversation dives into how the pandemic has exacerbated these issues, leading to more significant challenges for both employees and employers. Dr.
Cheng discusses the crucial role of employer-sponsored recovery programs and employee assistance programs (EAPs) in fostering a supportive and stigma-free work environment. She emphasizes the importance of self-reporting for professionals battling substance use and highlights the benefits of seeking help. This episode also explores the impact of substance use on workplace relationships and behavior, offering practical advice on building a compassionate safety culture.
If you're looking to understand how to create a healthier workplace and support those dealing with substance use disorders, this episode is a must-listen.