A productive work environment is like a well-oiled machine, with every part working in unison to accomplish a task. When parts are missing or underperforming, the machine does not work as designed, adding strain on the other parts or stopping the machine altogether. If this sounds familiar, it’s likely because you have worked or supervised somewhere that has had problems with high absenteeism or presenteeism (underperforming while on the job). Absenteeism and underperforming also increase the workload placed on co-workers and supervisors, increase stress in the workplace, and lead to the termination of otherwise good employees. In order to address the issues, it’s important to understand the causes of absenteeism and presenteeism.
Causes of Absenteeism and Presenteeism in the Workplace
Lost time and underperformance are significant issues that affect workplace productivity. Often absenteeism is simply due to a short- or long-term illness. However, mental health issues remain a top cause. The cost of depression alone is at least $210 billion per year, in the form of medical costs and lost productivity.[1] According to the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), mental-health-related absences were up 33% in 2023.[2] And it’s not just mental health issues. Those with alcohol use disorders or substance use disorders disproportionately miss work.[3]
According to the Addiction Center, currently about 13.5 million (8.7% of the population) adult workers in America struggle with a substance use disorder. These employees miss an average of 22 days annually, which equates to twice the number of days that employees without substance use disorders miss.
The good news is that counseling can help. One study on absenteeism and presenteeism indicated that about half of the workers struggled with presenteeism (underperforming) prior to counseling.[4] After counseling, that number was cut down to one-fourth and absenteeism improved as well. The hours of missed work were reduced by over 50% as well. Workers even showed an increase in life satisfaction.
Relate: The Negative Effects of Alcohol Use — How it Impacts the Body and Mind
How an EAP Can Help
At Lake Point Recovery and Wellness, we want to help empower your workforce with our comprehensive substance use disorder and mental health therapy programs. Treatment at Lake Point provides several benefits to your workforce including:
Improved Employee Productivity — Employees overcoming substance use disorder experienced a 33% increase in productivity, according to the National Safety Council, suggesting that addressing substance use can boost workplace performance and morale.
Enhanced Employee Wellbeing — Supporting employees in recovery fosters a culture of compassion and wellness, with workplaces reporting higher employee satisfaction, as reported by SHRM. Improving worker satisfaction, in turn, promotes a healthier, more supportive environment.
Reduced Absenteeism — Investing in employee wellness through substance use disorder therapy can lead to a 25% reduction in absenteeism rates, resulting in decreased turnover rates and associated costs for employers.
Why You Should Choose Lake Point as Your EAP Provider
We employ customized therapy programs, which are tailored therapy programs designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring personalized care and support. Recovery looks different for everyone. There is no one-size-fits-all program that will be able to reach everyone. Our experienced substance use and behavioral health counselors specialize in treating substance use disorders and related mental health issues. We work with our clients in-depth to meet their unique treatment needs, providing expert guidance and support throughout the recovery process.
Lake Point also offers a holistic approach to our treatment program that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of substance use disorder, promoting long-term recovery and wellness. In addition, we have chaplain services available, to those who would like to incorporate a spiritual aspect to their recovery. EAPs are a great tool to help those struggling to maintain their jobs amidst the struggles with addictions, depression, grief, trauma, and a host of other issues. If you would like more information on our EAP services please call 1-833-4HANDUP or fill out our online contact form.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8097130/
[2] https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/benefits-compensation/mental-health-absences-surge-workplace-compsych
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8931561/
[4] https://journalistsresource.org/health/employee-assistance-programs-mental-health/
