Building a Recovery-Ready Workplace: a Strategic Approach for National Recovery Month

September marks National Recovery Month. Established and sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the observance promotes and supports new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, celebrates the recovery community, and recognizes those who make recovery possible. 

With more than 48 million individuals in the United States grappling with SUDs, and more than 60 million U.S. workers experiencing personal or family problems related to substance or alcohol use, Pelago is committed to facilitating change by supporting recovery-ready workplaces.

Transforming Workplaces with Recovery-Ready Substance Use Care

Creating a recovery-ready workplace is not just an important health and wellness goal, but also a strategic business decision. A significant number of employees—nearly three-quarters—miss work due to personal or family substance issues, leading to substantial costs for employers. The CDC estimates that U.S. employers incur over $15,000 annually in SUD-related costs per affected employee. However, employees in recovery miss fewer workdays compared to those who do not receive treatment, underscoring the economic and productivity benefits of supporting recovery.

Benefits of a Recovery-Ready Workplace

A recovery-ready workplace offers numerous benefits, both for employees and employers:

• Reduced Absenteeism: Workers in recovery miss 13.7 fewer days annually than those with untreated SUDs and 3.6 fewer days than the average employee.
• Lower Turnover Rates: Employees in recovery have a turnover rate that is 12% lower than the overall average, indicating higher retention and stability within the workforce¹ .
• Cost Savings: Employers save approximately $3,200 annually per employee in recovery, thanks to reduced healthcare costs and fewer missed workdays.
• Enhanced Productivity and Morale: A supportive environment improves employee morale and productivity, benefiting the overall business.

Creating a Stigma-Free Environment

The power of a recovery-ready workplace lies in its ability to save money, improve outcomes, and lower barriers to SUD care. By fostering a stigma-free environment, employers encourage open conversations about substance use and mental health, making it clear that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This can be achieved through:

• Educational Programs: Implementing educational initiatives that reduce stigma and promote understanding of SUDs.
• Confidential Access to Support: Providing employees with confidential access to evidence-based substance use management programs, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted treatment.

Aligning with National and Federal Initiatives

A recovery-ready workplace aligns with the U.S. Department of Labor’s workplace initiatives and federal efforts to support recovery. The Biden-Harris Administration has emphasized the importance of recovery-ready workplaces in addressing the opioid epidemic and strengthening the economy. These policies help create safe and healthy work environments, reduce stigma, and promote addiction treatment and recovery support services.

Pelago’s Commitment to Recovery-Ready Workplaces

Pelago is at the forefront of supporting recovery-ready workplaces. As a leading digital clinic, Pelago partners with businesses to offer personalized, on-demand support to employees seeking healthier lives. Pelago’s programs, which include CBT and MAT, are designed to seamlessly integrate with health plans and wellness platforms, ensuring accessible and effective support for those in need.

Steps for Employers

Employers can take these proactive steps to develop recovery-ready workplaces:

• Develop a Communication Strategy: Normalize discussions around substance use issues and treatment options.
• Implement Supportive Policies: Create policies that support employees in recovery and provide resources for those seeking help.
• Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges and seeking assistance.

By embracing these strategies, employers can enhance productivity, improve employee well-being, and reduce healthcare costs, all while contributing to a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

In conclusion, National Recovery Month serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting individuals in recovery. By transforming workplaces into recovery-ready environments, employers can make a significant impact on their employees’ lives and their bottom line. Pelago remains dedicated to this mission, partnering with businesses to create healthier, more supportive work environments for all.

For more information and resources, visit the SAMHSA National Recovery Month website. To learn more about how Pelago and its dedicated substance use management can help your organization overcome stigma and promote a recovery-ready workplace, check out our introduction to substance use management webpage.

 

¹ Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. (2021). Results from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed tables. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Table 6.36A.