Substance abuse affects American communities and families in a big way. This statement needs no further proof than that which already exists in schools, crime rates and tragic accidents.
According to a recent study of family-owned businesses, evidence is seen that substance abuse is affecting US family businesses at a higher rate than the general population itself. What does this mean for our small business economy, and how do we address the issue?
Effects of Drug and Alcohol Addiction Small Family Business
Drug and alcohol abuse attacks small businesses (which are so often family own and run) in a very distinct way. Employees who are abusing drugs or drinking heavily will usually begin to display some of the following warning signs that an addictive situation has developed:
-Tardiness
-Major attitude shifts
-Confrontational or moody periods
-Consistent mistakes on projects
-Shoddy appearance
-Loss of appetite
-Depression or anxiety
ReGENERATION Partners and Caron Treatment Centers, a Dallas based business consulting firm, recently studied nearly a hundred different family-owned and operated businesses to gain a deeper understanding into the effects of substance in families who work closely together on a daily basis.
According to study findings, more than half of the participating companies were seen to be struggling with family-related addiction issues within their businesses. According to ReGENERATION’s CEO, “Substance abuse and addiction in a family-owned business is being grossly overlooked, yet it will have a dramatic impact on our society as well as out economy.”
Other findings include the fact that 54% of study participants admitted the company’s management had resolved an addiction issue.
Family Addiction and Intervention
Where does one draw the line between business and family? Since substance abuse is affecting US family businesses at a higher rate than the general population, it is clear there are a lack of treatment resources available to small business owners today.
Experts agree that regular drug testing and educational preventative measures amongst families is a good idea, especially in a business setting.
For the sake of company productivity and longevity, and for the survival of the individual himself, it is extremely important that addiction is dealt with in a timely manner. Professional interventionists also exist for situations where a person is unwilling to enter treatment.
Substance Abuse Trends Affecting Americans
Today’s drug threats include synthetic drugs, conventional street drugs (heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamines, etc.) and prescription pills.
The US government now calls prescription drug abuse the fastest growing addiction problem in the country. Painkillers, anti-anxiety medications and stimulant pills each have dangerous adverse effects and are known to be habit-forming.
If you are struggling with a family-related addiction issue within your business, take the time to educate yourself about the particular situation. Drugs and alcohol tend to change an abuser’s personality largely. If you understand the mechanics of addiction and know what to expect, you will be less caught off guard and more able to act appropriately.
For more information go to www.narconon.org/narconon-centers/.