Substance use disorder

Substance use at the workplace often appears as changes in job performance or short absences. The workplace substance abuse policy is part of the early support model. Its goal is to prevent problems and encourage conversation.

In the condition of substance use disorder a person’s use of drugs or alcohol harms their health and/or leads to social problems. Substance use disorders are accompanied by increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. The use of alcohol and drugs in itself can cause or be accompanied by various psychological symptoms. These include, for example, mood swings, anxiety, sleep disorders and depression. Treatments should primarily be targeted at the substance use disorder.

It is also possible that a person has a severe psychiatric illness, such as bipolar disorder, and a severe substance use disorder. In that case, both disorders must be treated at the same time.

Substance use can affect work ability

Signs of a substance use disorder at the workplace can include a change in work performance, withdrawal or short, repeated absences. The person may also be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the workplace. As a rule, alcohol dependence, intoxication or the use of illegal drugs is not grounds for disability benefits.

The supervisor should follow the workplace’s drug and alcohol policy in dealing with suspected substance abuse.

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