Supporting A Recovery Friendly Workplace: A Vital Investment

David Mahler • August 27, 2024

In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, supporting employees with substance misuse issues is not only a humane act but also a strategic necessity. By prioritizing the well-being of employees, employers can create a more productive, supportive, and inclusive workplace.

The Impact of Substance Misuse on the Workplace


Substance misuse can significantly impact an individual's physical and mental health, leading to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and even job loss. According to SAMHSA, approximately 46.3 million people in the United States are living with substance misuse, and 70% of them are employed. This statistic underscores the prevalence of substance misuse within the workforce.



Creating a Recovery-Ready Workplace



A recovery-ready workplace is one that supports employees who are struggling with substance misuse and provides them with the resources they need to succeed in their recovery journey. Here are some practical steps employers can take to create such an environment:

Raise Awareness and Education: Educate employees about substance misuse, its effects, and the importance of seeking help. This can be done through training sessions, workshops, or informational materials.

Implement Supportive Policies: Establish policies that support employees in recovery, such as flexible work schedules, time off for treatment, and access to employee assistance programs (EAPs).

Create a Stigma-Free Environment: Foster a culture of understanding and empathy by promoting a stigma-free workplace where employees feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Provide Support and Resources: Offer a variety of resources, including counseling services, peer support groups, and access to treatment facilities, to help employees in their recovery journey.

Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Encourage healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management techniques, to prevent substance misuse and support overall well-being.

Involve Professional Support: Consider partnering with recovery coaches, counselors, or peer support specialists who have expertise in substance misuse and can provide personalized guidance and support to employees.



Proactive Measures for Prevention



In addition to supporting employees in recovery, employers can take proactive measures to prevent substance misuse in the workplace. This includes:

Drug Testing Policies: Implement reasonable drug testing policies that align with legal requirements and promote workplace safety.

Mental Health Support: Provide resources for mental health support, such as counseling services or employee assistance programs, to address underlying issues that may contribute to substance misuse.

Stress Management Programs: Offer programs and workshops to help employees manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.


The Benefits of a Recovery-Ready Workplace

Investing in a recovery-ready workplace offers numerous benefits, including:

Increased Productivity: Employees who are supported in their recovery are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work.

Improved Morale: A supportive and inclusive workplace culture can boost morale and employee satisfaction.

Reduced Absenteeism: By addressing substance misuse issues, employers can reduce absenteeism and improve overall workplace attendance.

Enhanced Reputation: A company that prioritizes employee well-being and supports recovery can improve its reputation as an employer of choice.

By implementing these strategies, employers can create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed in their recovery journey. This investment in employee well-being will ultimately benefit the entire organization.

#groundzerorecoverycoaching
#workplacewellness
#substanceusedisorderrecovery 

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.