12/20/2025
5 Warning Signs an Employee’s Illness Might Be Drug Abuse — What Employers Should Know
Watch out for these 5 warning signs that an employee’s “ailment” may have morphed into a substance-abuse problem. We break down mood, behavior, performance, and appearance red flags — and why early detection matters.
In this episode we cover:
- What qualifies as prescription drug abuse — common types (opioids, sedatives, stimulants) and why misuse often starts innocently.
- The 5 key signs employers and coworkers should watch out for: personality/mood changes, recurring unexplained illnesses or injuries, psychological issues (irritability, paranoia, concentration problems), changes in physical appearance (weight loss, fatigue, hygiene), and neglect of responsibilities — like performance drop, absenteeism, or tardiness.
- Why misuse of prescriptions is common: ease of access, medical prescriptions, and misunderstanding of risks — and how addiction can develop even with legal drugs.
- What employers can do: be observant, approach concerns with care, consider supportive interventions — and understand that patterns, not single incidents, often reveal substance abuse.
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