The United States is in the middle of a full-blown opioid abuse epidemic, and it’s having some signifiant effects on productivity in the workplace.
One 2007 study found that prescription opioid abuse cost employers more than $25 billion, a number that could be much higher today. And the problem is exacerbated by the fact that few employers screen for prescription opioids, instead opting for drug tests for marijuana and other illegal drugs.
This issue is tied closely to workers’ compensation benefits, as opioids are often prescribed to to individuals seeking pain relief due to an on-the-job injury. In fact, a majority of workers’ comp claims nationwide that involved pain medication included prescriptions for opioids.
It’s also interesting to note that opioid abuse is just as prevalent among white-collar workers as it is blue-collar workers, and those who have high professional stature often find it more difficult to seek treatment. In fact, the addiction rate among legal professionals is nearly twice that of the general population. Many individuals are able to hide their addictions from their employers for years, but continue to suffer from decreased productivity and brain function as time goes on.
The over-prescribing of opioids has been connected to increased rates of heroin abuse nationwide.
Twin Cities Public Health 