Addiction
Summary: It’s not the role of the supervisor or employer to diagnose a possible addiction or dependency problem. Their role is to identify if an employee is impaired and to take appropriate steps to protect the safety of the individual and others, as per the organization’s policy. These free resources can help.
Addiction articles and resources
The list that follows includes the resources linked to above as well as related information that may be more specific to your current situation:
Impaired employees could exhibit erratic behaviours that can escalate to a workplace crisis. Learn how you can develop, communicate and implement an effective impairment policy.
Information to help identify the signs of impairment and respond effectively. These strategies can also help accommodate an employee’s return to work after treatment.
Tactful words to use when referring employees to mental health resources for a variety of reasons. While the examples use Mental health awareness videos, you can adapt them for any resource.
Questions and strategies to help you have a supportive conversation when someone you care about might be struggling with an addiction.
Questions and strategies to help you have a supportive conversation when someone you care about appears to be drinking a lot.
Links to organizations that provide questionnaires and tools that explore health concerns.
The information and strategies offered here are intended to help you avoid engaging in addictive behaviours at work. This isn’t about treatment or medical advice.
Strategies for supporting employees when a co-worker has died by or attempted suicide. This resource covers return to work for an employee who has attempted suicide.
Tools and resources for managing your own health and wellness, as well as information for helping others. Find credible information about managing well-being and mental health-related concerns.
Questions for assessing an employee's propensity for violence in the workplace. Consider recommending that the employee see a trauma counsellor.