Empowering Employees, Strengthening Your Workplace: Why SUD Training and Stigma Reduction Matter

David Mahler • July 24, 2024

Empowering Employees, Strengthening Your Workplace: Why SUD Training and Stigma Reduction Matter


Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a chronic condition characterized by uncontrolled use of substances despite harmful consequences. It can affect anyone, regardless of background or position. In the workplace, unaddressed SUD can lead to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and even safety hazards.


But here's the good news: proactive management with a focus on SUD training and stigma reduction can create a healthier and more productive work environment for everyone. Here's why:


The Prevalence of SUD and Its Impact on Work


SUD is more common than you might think. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), nearly 20 million adults in the United States have a Substance Use Disorder in a given year [1]. That translates to a significant portion of the workforce potentially struggling with this issue.


Left unaddressed, SUD can have a significant impact on businesses. Here are some of the consequences:


  • Increased absenteeism and presenteeism: Employees with SUD may miss work more often due to health issues or relapses. Even when they're physically present, their productivity might be hindered by substance use.
  • Safety hazards: Depending on the substance and role, employees with SUD could pose a safety risk to themselves and others.
  • Employee morale: Untreated SUD can lead to negative workplace interactions, impacting team morale and overall company culture.
  • Increased healthcare costs: Employees with SUD often utilize more healthcare resources, driving up company healthcare costs.

The Benefits of SUD Training


By implementing SUD training programs, businesses can create a more informed and supportive work environment. Here's how training benefits both employees and employers:


  • Early identification: Training equips employees and managers to recognize the signs and symptoms of SUD. This allows for earlier intervention and support, potentially preventing further issues.
  • Reduced stigma: Education helps break down the stigma surrounding SUD, encouraging employees to seek help without fear of judgment.
  • Increased access to resources: Training can connect employees with relevant resources and support programs, both within the company and externally.
  • Improved employee well-being: By fostering a culture of understanding and support, companies can contribute to the overall well-being of their employees, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.
  • Reduced costs: Early intervention and support can help manage healthcare costs associated with SUD.

Breaking the Stigma: Fostering a Supportive Work Environment


Stigma surrounding SUD is a significant barrier to seeking help. Here are some ways management can break the stigma and create a supportive workplace:


  • Open communication: Promote open and honest communication about SUD. Normalize conversations around mental health conditions, including addiction.
  • Leadership by example: Leaders can show their commitment to employee well-being by openly discussing the importance of mental health support.
  • Confidentiality: Ensure confidentiality when discussing SUD with employees. This will encourage them to seek help without fearing repercussions.
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Offer and promote EAPs, which are confidential programs that provide employees and their families with counseling, referrals, and resources on a variety of issues, including substance use.
  • Flexible work arrangements: Consider offering flexible work arrangements to employees struggling with SUD. This can provide them with the space they need to manage their recovery.

Implementing SUD Training and Support Programs


Several resources are available to help companies implement SUD training and support programs. Here are some starting points:

  • The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) offers a wealth of resources on SUD, including information on training and prevention [1].
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides resources on workplace mental health programs, including SUD [2].
  • Many national and local organizations offer SUD training programs specifically designed for the workplace.


Conclusion


By prioritizing SUD training and stigma reduction, management can create a more supportive, productive, and healthy work environment. This benefits not only employees struggling with SUD but also the entire company. Investing in employee well-being leads to a stronger, more resilient workforce, ultimately contributing to the success of the business.


Remember:


  • SUD is a treatable condition.
  • Open communication and support are critical for recovery.
  • Investing in SUD education and resources benefits everyone.

Take the first step towards a healthier workplace culture. Start by exploring the resources mentioned above and creating a plan to address SUD within your organization.

Why a Recovery Coach Matters During the Holiday Season

By David Mahler • November 24, 2025
The holiday season has a way of magnifying everything—joy, stress, expectations, emotions, and memories. For people in recovery, this time of year can feel especially complicated. Between family gatherings, disrupted routines, emotional triggers, and environments where alcohol or old habits are present, it’s easy to feel unsteady. Whether someone has been sober for years or is only beginning to find their footing, support is essential. One of the strongest forms of support during this season is a recovery coach. A recovery coach isn’t just someone who cheers you on. They’re a partner in accountability, a guide through tricky emotional terrain, and a stable voice when everything around you feels loud or overwhelming. As we head into the holidays, here’s why having a recovery coach can make all the difference. Holiday Stress Hits Everyone—Including the “Experienced” in Recovery There’s a common assumption that the longer someone is sober, the easier the holidays become. And yes—time and practice do help. But recovery isn’t a linear experience, and stress doesn’t discriminate based on how many years someone has under their belt. For people with long-term sobriety, the holidays can bring nostalgia for “old times,” complacency, complicated family dynamics, and added responsibilities. A recovery coach helps ground and re-center someone who may not realize how much the season is taking out of them. For Those New to Sobriety, Everything Feels Amplified For someone new to recovery, the holidays can feel like being dropped into the deep end before you’ve learned to swim. A recovery coach acts as a lifeline—guiding someone through their first sober gatherings, helping get through the moments of fear, judgment, loneliness, and emotional overload. They help with boundary-setting, planning, and emotional support when everything feels new and overwhelming. Family and Relationship Dynamics Can Be Tricky Holidays and family can be both a blessing and a landmine. Common challenges include families who drink heavily, relatives who ask intrusive questions, emotional triggers, or pressure to “just have one.” A recovery coach helps prepare for these moments by identifying triggers, building communication plans, creating boundaries, and providing strategies to exit situations gracefully. Recovery Coaches Provide Structure When the Holidays Disrupt Routine Routine is one of the strongest anchors in recovery—but the holidays disrupt everything. A recovery coach helps rebuild or adjust routines, keep accountability, and provide grounding tools so the season feels manageable instead of chaotic. Most Importantly: You Don’t Have to Navigate the Season Alone Recovery thrives in connection. Isolation fuels relapse. A recovery coach is someone in your corner—celebrating wins, supporting tough moments, and helping you experience the holidays with authenticity and strength. Whether someone is decades into recovery or just starting out, the holiday season can be overwhelming. A recovery coach gives you the tools, support, and companionship to meet the season with confidence rather than fear.

How a Sober Companion Can Help Someone Transition Home After Treatment

By David Mahler • October 26, 2025

Why Some Executives Need a Sober Companion

By David Mahler • August 17, 2025
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, executives often face high-stakes decisions, long hours, and immense pressure to perform. This intense lifestyle can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use. When stress collides with the constant availability of alcohol at business dinners, networking events, and client meetings, the risk of dependency increases. For leaders looking to maintain their edge and safeguard their well-being, a sober companion or recovery coach can provide essential support. The Role of a Sober Companion A sober companion is a professional who helps individuals remain accountable and committed to their sobriety. Unlike a therapist, who may meet once a week, sober companions are often present daily, providing real-time guidance during business trips, social events, or other high-pressure situations. Their presence allows executives to navigate professional obligations without jeopardizing recovery or reputation. In addition, a sober companion offers structure, consistency, and discreet support—qualities that are invaluable for executives managing both personal recovery and professional demands. Why Executives Benefit Executives are under constant scrutiny. A single poor decision can impact not only their career but also the success of an entire company. A sober companion helps mitigate these risks by ensuring the leader remains clear-headed, present, and focused. This layer of accountability safeguards careers, stabilizes leadership, and ultimately benefits the wider organization. Beyond sobriety, many sober companions and recovery coaches encourage healthier routines—incorporating fitness, mindfulness, and stress management practices. This holistic approach helps leaders build resilience, making them stronger both in the boardroom and in their personal lives. Breaking the Stigma Seeking a sober companion or recovery coach should not be seen as a weakness. On the contrary, it is a powerful act of leadership. By prioritizing wellness, executives set a strong example for their teams and demonstrate that self-awareness and support are crucial for long-term success. Final Thoughts Some executives need a sober companion not just to maintain sobriety, but to thrive in demanding environments. Having professional support ensures they can lead with clarity, confidence, and balance. If you or someone you know could benefit from this kind of support, contact Ground Zero Recovery for all your sober companion and sober coaching needs.