How employers can support employees at risk of overdose

Health plan benefits are designed to make health care affordable and accessible, and there’s no stigma in asking for help.

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released staggering data about drug overdoses; in the 12 months between April 2020 and April 2021, more than 100,000 people died from a drug overdose; this is the first time that overdose deaths have reached six figures. Drug addiction does not discriminate among race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, education, or profession.

Substance abuse, or substance use disorder (SUD), is a complex chronic mental illness. Many addictive substances exist, but the most common types fall into six main categories: alcohol, illicit drugs, opiates, benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, and stimulants. An estimated 28 million people worldwide are battling with at least one addiction. Unfortunately, only 10% are receiving treatment. Of the 28 million dealing with SUD, roughly 70% are employed. Many feel ashamed to admit they need help because of addiction’s social stigma, and others don’t want to leave their career, family, or obligations.