Navigating conversations with employees at risk of overdose
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released data stating, in the 12 months between April 2020 to 2021, more than 100,000 people died from an overdose. This is an all-time high with over 600 people dying every day. With such staggering numbers, it’s easy to see how many people are affected by addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD). An estimated 28 million people across the globe are battling addiction. Of those 28 million, roughly 70% are also employed. With such a larger percentage in the workforce, employers are looking for ways to support these at risk employees.
SUD’s can be devastating, both personally and professionally. They affect our lives in so many ways: ruining careers, marriages or friendships; putting individuals at risk for mental health issues. It’s important not to judge anyone struggling with a SUD. Many individuals feel ashamed to admit that they need help and don’t want others aware of their situation. They fear it could result in being judged by other people or even lose certain privileges such as employment opportunities.
BRI’s Vice President of Strategy, Becky Seefeldt recently shared the challenges in navigating conversations with employees at risk of overdose and how employers can help.
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How Benefits Can Help
To access a list of eligible expenses and find out more about what SUD programs are eligible, use the Eligible Expense Lookup tool on BenefitResource.com. Additionally, if you’re a participant with Benefit Resource, you can view the Eligible Expense Table PDF on BRiWeb. (Log in to your BRiWeb account through the main page in the top right corner).
Thankfully, there are also many rehab facilities and recovery centers throughout the country where anyone can get treatment. Contact a treatment provider today if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and need more information.
