Role of the Workplace in Drug Rehabilitation

There is no doubt that the majority of more advanced drug addicts would end their addiction on their own if possible, but the stark reality is that drug addiction is typically stronger than the will to stop. In addition to the physical and mental health issues suffered by many addicts, employment opportunities may also be severely limited because many companies and organisations are now instituting strategies drug and alcohol programmes and various Drug Testing Equipment requires that are part and parcel of the conditions for ongoing employment. Is Australia, many sectors now screen for drug and alcohol use, and in safety sensitive realms the use of drugs and alcohol is prohibited from a legislative and organisational perspective?

However, those who become addicted to illegal drugs after they have been hired may have options available to them because of the Employee Assistance Programmes of their employer and these can be affected and utilised so that an otherwise valuable (but substance using) employee can regain his or position as a valued member of the team.

Drug addiction may be a disability

According to the World Health Organisation, drug addiction and dependence “is as much a disorder of the brain as any other neurological or psychiatric disorder.” The report, launched by the WHO in 2004 also makes it plainly clear that recovery from addiction is indeed possible. By utilizing drug screening programmes, along with education strategies, employers can actually support this stance and create an ongoing win-win situation that maintains employee stability and workplace streamlining and also helps a valued but flawed individual rehabilitate.

Convincing addicts of treatment needs

Not every addict will admit their addiction and those that do may need to be convinced that they require outside help to put an end to their addiction. The use of a Drug & Alcohol Testing or drug screening programme can actually be a first-phase intervention that spells out certain realities to the using addict employee. He or she – if testing positive – may well be forced to face the very real ramifications of their drug addiction and usage. They may be confronted with the possibility of losing employment and stability – which may in turn cut through their denial and help them to see the reality of their behavior and plight. In this sense, the drug test can even work as a true lifeline to a new life.

Hands-off approach never beneficial

Some organisations and companies still take a hands-off approach to an employee’s addiction. This decision can in fact be costly in terms of poor work performance, workplace disruptions and the eventual loss of an otherwise qualified worker.

Employers can hand the addicted employee a lifeline in the form of help in ending their addiction. The first stage in this may well be the implementation of a true quality onsite screening programme at Drug Testing Australia.