Detecting cocaine use in a superior: Identifying symptoms in the workplace - Signs of Cocaine Use in the Workplace: Identifying Symptoms of Drug Abuse among Employees
Detecting Drug Use in the Workplace: Identifying Signs in Your Boss
By Leon Berent
A questioning reader asked, "How can I tell if my boss is using drugs?" While it can be challenging to detect drug use in a colleague, including a boss, various behavioral and physical changes may indicate substance use.
Occupational health management and HR departments are trained to recognize addiction behavior. They monitor signs such as dilated pupils, memory lapses, altered perceptions of reality, and inconsistent motivation.
However, if you suspect drug use, it's crucial to approach the situation with sensitivity and professionalism. Focus on the impact of the suspicious behavior on work performance rather than making accusations.
Certain behavioral, physical, and workplace interaction changes may suggest drug use. These indicators include:
- Behavioral Changes: Sudden increases in absenteeism, performance issues, mood swings, and secrecy.
- Physical Signs: Weight loss, bloodshot eyes, poor hygiene, coordination issues, and sleep pattern changes.
- Workplace Interactions: Social withdrawal, defensiveness, and lack of motivation.
If behaviors of concern arise, document incidents for reference. It's also advisable to involve HR in a discreet and confidential manner, while seeking external guidance from resources like the SAMHSA National Helpline. Maintaining confidentiality during the process will help protect the individual's privacy.
Addressing drug use in the workplace requires tact and professionalism. By focusing on performance impacts, you can approach the issue sensitively and effectively.
- The community policy on workplace-wellness, health-and-and-wellness, and mental-health should include measures to identify signs of drug use, as these behaviors may affect an employee's performance and lead to the likes of increased absenteeism, mood swings, secrecy, or physical signs such as weight loss, bloodshot eyes, and poor hygiene.
- Engaging in science-informed employment policies, such as those centered on promoting a drug-free workplace, can necessitate understanding and addressing substance use concerns with sensitivity, professionalism, and discretion, ensuring that emphasis is placed on performance impacts, rather than accusations, thereby ensuring a conducive and healthy working environment for all.
