How is Your Workplace Impacted by Meth Use?
The cover of the December 2005 issue of HR Magazine focuses on Meth in the Workplace. Both the media and law enforcement agencies have placed increased attention on the growth of the methamphetamine industry in the United States. Has corporate America been paying attention?
"Most people would be surprised at who uses meth: professionals, housewives, kids in school - - people looking for a lift in life," said Mark Sheets, executive director of Adult Continuum Services for Hazelden, in Center City, Minnesota. Affordable and dangerous makes a deadly combination and these words are often used as descriptors of methamphetamine. Yet, according to the Mental Health Foundation, the problem of meth use remains unnoticed by much of corporate America. A 2004 study by Quest Diagnostics Inc., showed the number of workers testing positive for meth rose 68% in 2003.
Initial signs of meth usage may include increased energy, higher productivity and the ability to work longer hours - all traits viewed positively in many companies. Over time this initial burst may be followed by increased sick days/absenteeism, erratic behavior, loss of focus, decreased productivity and accidents - all of which result in a direct negative impact on the bottom-line.
How prevalent is meth usage? What role should HR play in uncovering and addressing meth usage? Are you familiar with the signs and signals that may indicate that an employee is using meth?
To read Susan Ladika's article "Meth Madness" as it appears in the December 2005 issue of HR Magazine, click here: Meth Madness
Posted by Denise Knutson, Senior Consultant, The H.S. Group
"Most people would be surprised at who uses meth: professionals, housewives, kids in school - - people looking for a lift in life," said Mark Sheets, executive director of Adult Continuum Services for Hazelden, in Center City, Minnesota. Affordable and dangerous makes a deadly combination and these words are often used as descriptors of methamphetamine. Yet, according to the Mental Health Foundation, the problem of meth use remains unnoticed by much of corporate America. A 2004 study by Quest Diagnostics Inc., showed the number of workers testing positive for meth rose 68% in 2003.
Initial signs of meth usage may include increased energy, higher productivity and the ability to work longer hours - all traits viewed positively in many companies. Over time this initial burst may be followed by increased sick days/absenteeism, erratic behavior, loss of focus, decreased productivity and accidents - all of which result in a direct negative impact on the bottom-line.
How prevalent is meth usage? What role should HR play in uncovering and addressing meth usage? Are you familiar with the signs and signals that may indicate that an employee is using meth?
To read Susan Ladika's article "Meth Madness" as it appears in the December 2005 issue of HR Magazine, click here: Meth Madness
Posted by Denise Knutson, Senior Consultant, The H.S. Group
posted by The H.S. Group at
10:35 AM
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