Has substance abuse become a problem for America’s workforce?

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Individuals turn to substance abuse for a number of reasons: a predisposition to substance abuse, traumatic upbringing, failed relationships, everyday stressors, etc. The list is never-ending. 

Experiencing some type of stress is a natural part of life. Unfortunately, some individuals use unhealthy measures in order to cope with these stressors.
Here in the United States, life is far from easy. In fact, a recent government study revealed that one in ten individuals that are employed full-time struggle with a substance abuse problem. When one thinks about the amount of people who are currently employed full-time, that is a lot of individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Researchers gathered data from over 111,000 full-time workers between 2008 and 2012. What was found was, 9.5% of these full-time workers were suffering from an illicit drug and/or alcohol addiction.
Nine percent of workers between the ages of 18 and 64 admitted to drinking heavily within the past month. When one uses the term 'drinking heavily,' it is describing those who drink more than 5 alcoholic beverages during an occasion, or on 5 or more days over a span of 30 days. It was also shown that the same amount of individuals admitted to illicit drug use.
It was estimated that nearly 4% of those in the public administration field, and 19% of those in hospitality and food service, had admitted to using drugs within the past month.
The numbers of hospitality and food service workers admitting to drug use has increased since 2007. In 2007, the number of individuals admitting to drug use was around 17%.
Overall, the amount of individuals suffering from substance abuse has been the same since a similar study was done in 2007.
Pamela Hyde, an administrator of the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, has been monitoring this situation very closely. She states that the situation can improve if employers develop workplace programs, such as Employee Assistance Programs. These assistance programs can help employees that are battling substance abuse problems. This programs can help improve productivity of the employees, and help boost overall morale.
Some industry jobs have already noticed a substantial decrease in substance abuse disorders. Substance abuse among construction workers have dropped from 17% to 14%.
Life comes with its struggles. When an individual turns to substance abuse, the struggles do not just go away. In fact, the problems become amplified. Fortunately, there are places and people who can help individuals who are suffering from substance abuse disorders.

By contacting addiction treatment centers, you will be well on your way to finding your addiction solution. These drug rehabs for addiction will help you as you undergo addiction detox, and they will give you coping skills to help you when you experience stressors that led to substance abuse in the first place.
If you, or someone you know, is suffering from a substance abuse addiction, contact your local addiction treatment centers. Substance abuse does not have to jeopardize employment, relationships, and any other aspect of life. There is help available. 

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