About Recovery-Friendly Workplace
Work is an important part of our lives. Not only does employment provide us with an income and much-needed benefits such as health insurance and retirement, work also lends meaning to our daily life and often defines “who” we are. Of course, our job is not our whole life, but we do spend much of our time at work. Our jobs can impact our free time, too.
No matter how dedicated a person is to their work, and regardless of the meaning work provides in a person’s life, there are times when personal problems affect our job. These issues can include personal substance abuse problems, depression or troubles with a spouse, partner, child or parent.
Substance abuse hurts the workplace, but the workplace can help
Personal and/or family issues can distract even the most motivated employee. That distraction can take the form of:
- Missed work—frequent absenteeism or consistent tardiness
- Loss of concentration resulting in lower-quality work or safety hazards
- Diminished passion for work and the mission of the organization or work unit
- Increased work-related stress and anxiety
- Conflict with supervisors and/or fellow employees
- Increased accidents
- An overall decrease in life satisfaction resulting in unhappiness at work
It is a myth that employees experiencing personal problems are bad employees. Most people in the workforce want to do well and contribute to the company they work for, but personal issues and problems sometimes interfere with that goal. It’s a practical matter—and is the right thing to do—for employers to want to help someone who is struggling on the job because of personal problems.
Years ago, a number of large companies were asked why they invested in programs to identify, help and retain troubled employees. Even though all the companies recognized the financial and practical benefit of offering assistance to struggling employees, the main reason was, “because it’s the right thing to do.”
The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services wants to support all employees statewide who may be experiencing a difficult stretch in life. We want people who are struggling to receive the help and support that they want and need. We are “Recovery-Friendly.”