However, problematic alcohol and drug use can have a very different and significant impact on an individual, society and therefore workplaces.
Risk factors, such as social isolation, poor mental health, financial pressures, and sickness absence, can be made worse by excessive alcohol and drug use.
It is therefore important that employers have a clear policy on preventing and reducing the harm from problematic alcohol and drug use, and this forms part of their overall wellbeing practice. It should also ensure that any need for disciplinary action, is coupled with a preventative and supportive approach to help employees get the help and support they need.
Support and resources
Derbyshire Recovery Partnership is a free service that can provide support for over 18-year-olds who are negatively affected by their own, or someone else's alcohol or drug use.
Change Grow Live Derbyshire is a free and confidential service for young people under the age of 19, who are using drugs or alcohol and want support.
Frank is the national website for anyone seeking honest and reliable information on drug use and what support is available. Talk to Frank offers confidential advice and support via phone, text, online chat or email.
Alcohol Change UK is a national charity working to reduce the harm caused by alcohol. The website provides information about alcohol and the impact it can have on health, relationships, family, work and the community. Alcohol Change UK offers support to people outside of Derbyshire.
Al-Anon is a national charity that runs peer to peer support groups for those affected by someone else's alcohol use. Search for local groups in your area where you can share your challenges and successes with others who are or have been in a similar situation.