Drug and Alcohol Addiction
A drug addiction is defined as the compulsive need for, or use of, a habit-forming substance (such as cocaine, heroin, nicotine or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and well defined symptoms upon withdrawal. Addictions occur when the individual behavior develops into a persistent and compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful. The addict devotes or surrenders oneself to the drug. This habitual or obsessive use in a substance is the root cause of the addiction. Drugs and drug addiction is a major social concern affecting crime, health and economics.
Do you have a drug dependency problem?
- Do you use drugs to reduce anxiety?
- Do you use drug first thing in the morning to calm your nerves?
- Each time you use drugs does it take more and more to get high?
- Do you ever lose control over drug use?
If you answered yes to one or more of the questions above, you may have a problem with drug addiction. An addiction can lead to failed marriages, broken homes, criminal records, severe emotional problems and even death.
Warning Signs for Teachers & Parents
Drug addictions develop and progress more quickly in children then the same addiction in adults. It is best to identify the symptoms and start treatment in the early stages before the problem is exasperated. Parents and teachers can recognize addiction type behaviors by observing the child and identifying a pattern of problems in the child's life. Some of the warning signs may include:
- A drastic change in attitude
- Grades begin to drop.
- An increase in truancy
- A more frequent use of marijuana
- Keeping a personal supply of drugs or chemical "tools"
- Lying to parents about frequency of drug use and the source of money used to purchase the drugs
If you have any reason to believe, a child or someone you know is having problems with drugs or alcohol please calls a counselor. Most communities sponsor Residential Drug Treatment Centers which provide proven rehab treatment programs and a safe rehabilation zone.
Symptoms of Drug Abuse in the Workplace
Drug addiction affects every facet of a person's life including the place of employment. Chemical dependency has a clearly defined negative economic affect on companies. These monetary factors include an increase in absenteeism, co-worker conflicts, a drop in production, reduced product quality, injury and higher health care cost. Recognizing the impact substance abuse has on the company’s success and the value in the workers, some employers offer a comprehensive program of evaluation, treatment, counseling and support for employees and their families.
The following indicators may help you determine if an employee or co-worker is having problems with drugs or alcohol.
The first indicator reflects job performance. If you notice:
- Quality of work becomes inconsistent
- Displays poor concentration
- A noticeable drop in productivity
- An increase in absenteeism
- Unexplained disappearances from the job site
- Careless mistakes and error in judgment
- Disregard for safety and needless risk taking.
- Extended lunch breaks and leaving work early.
The second indicator addresses behavior. If you notice:
- Blaming others for personal problems
- Complaining of vague illnesses
- Complaining about problems at home
- Frequent money problems
- Avoidance of colleagues and friends
- Deterioration of personal appearance
Addiction Information
How much do you know about substance abuse in the workplace? These facts might surprise you. Did you know?
- Substance abuse in the workplace has increased at an alarming rate over the past several years.
- A recent government survey indicated that over 70% of illegal drug users are employed, of which 60% work for small companies that employ less then 500 workers. Drug abusers tend to seek employment with smaller companies where the likely of drug testing is slim.
- Drug abuse in the workplace cost the economy billions of dollars a year.
- a person abusing drugs is four times more likely to have or cause an accident while at work.
- A Federal Government survey found that 25% of workers in the manufacturing industry admitted to illegal drug use in the past 12 months.
- The construction industry has one of the highest substance abuse rates among workers between the age of 18 and 49.
- More then 9% of workers in the hospitality industry admitted to illegal drug use in the past 30 days.
- In the retail industry, 11% of full-time workers admitted to illegal drug use in the past 30 days and 20% admitted using drugs within the past one year.
- According to the Institute for a Drug-Free-Workplace, 82% of workers would support a company drug policy.
Drugs addiction is a social problem that needs our attention. If you have more information or would like to comment please contact administration.
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