USA Employers Brace for Increased Substance Misuse During Pandemic

The National Safety Council (NSC) is warning employers that they must prepare for an increase in substance misuse – one that could be a serious threat to worker safety, and cost tens of thousands in productivity losses, absenteeism and presenteeism, and worker’s compensation claims if employees do not plan ahead.

More than 30 US states are reporting spikes in fatal opioid-related overdoses, as well as increased concerns for those with a mental illness or substance addiction, all in connection with COVID-19.

To help employers address these interconnected issues, the NSC is calling on employers to prioritise employee stress, and emotional and mental health as employees return to traditional work environments.

NSC President and CEO, Lorraine M. Martin, said that every single employee is “facing an incredible amount of stress right now.”

“Employees need mental health resources and support both in the immediate future and down the line. Employees would benefit from having employer support through these difficult times. It can make a significant difference for their mental and physical health.”

The NSC says that, in general, trauma, economic distress and unemployment increases the risk for mental health issues and substance use disorders.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensifies the threat of mental health distress in several ways, including stress caused by financial, employment, child/family care instabilities, as well as fear of themselves or loved ones being exposed to or infected by COVID-19.

Extended social isolation can also lead to the development of substance use disorders. Those with previous substance use disorders are even more vulnerable due to decreased accessibility to treatment, recovery supports and harm reduction services, all a result of the pandemic.

The NSC lays out recommendations for employers in its Stress, Emotional and Mental Health Considerations Playbook. It has also created a how-to guide for addressing employee stress and anxiety regarding returning to work. The resources are part of a suite of tools developed as part of the NSC-led SAFER: Safe Actions for Employee Returns initiative and its task force.

Each person will experience the stress and trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic differently. Some may not show signs of or experience mental health distress for weeks or months,” the NSC says.

“In the Stress, Emotional and Mental Health Considerations Playbook, NSC recommends employers build both short- and long-term responses to these mental health considerations and ensure mental health continues to be prioritized.”

“The playbook also offers guidance to secure buy-in and engagement from leadership, management, human resources, communications and employees, which is critical for success.”