Symptoms of drug abuse in the workplace

Most users of illicit drugs are employed adults with rates of drug use which are especially high, up to 17 per cent, in specific workforce environments (for instance the construction industry).1 On the other hand, heavy alcohol intake has been reported in 7-44 per cent of employees.2, 3, 4 Symptoms of drug abuse are often more clearly identified where the consumers spend most of their time (for example at school, in the workplace). Recognition of these issues will help subjects in both breaking their denial attitude and in accessing the available employee assistance programmes, which will ultimately result in a safer work environment.