Last updated : November 11, 2024
The use of illicit drugs among Georgia residents is comparable to the average of the United States, which is high relative to other developed nations. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), from 2007 to 2008 approximately seven percent of Georgia residents used an illicit drug in the last month. Moreover, about three percent of Georgia residents used an illicit drug other than marijuana in the previous month.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2005 the illicit drug most often causing Georgia residents to seek treatment for drug abuse was cocaine, followed by marijuana, other stimulants and opiates. This is due to the psychologically addictive properties of cocaine, as well as the fact that Atlanta, the capital and most populous city of the state of Georgia, is relatively close to Miami, which is a major entry point of cocaine coming from Latin America and the Caribbean. Generally, users of illicit drugs tend to be younger, particularly between the ages of 18 and 30, though users of illicit drugs come in all ages.
Signs of Illicit Drug Use Among Employees
Given the widespread use of illicit drugs in Georgia, there are signs employers should be aware of to minimize the potential damage to business it may cause. Among employees with a drug abuse problem, work productivity may decline. The employee may have difficulty concentrating, may exhibit increased tardiness or absenteeism, may leave the workplace without explanation and may show poor judgment. Additionally, an employee with a drug abuse problem may have financial problems, as well as difficulty getting along with others, particularly coworkers, due to mood swings. Though alcohol is not an illicit drug, employees suffering from alcoholism may show similar behavioral problems in the workplace.
It is crucial for employers to address concerns about specific employees having a drug abuse problem if it may endanger the lives of others or the productivity of the business. However, employers should take care to protect the privacy of employees and show understanding. Employees with a drug abuse problem should be directed to counseling and therapy, which may be covered by some employer health plans.
Given the prevalence of illicit drug use in Georgia and the danger to workplace productivity and safety caused by drug abuse, employers should be aware of the consequences to avoiding the problem when it arises. Employers should therefore take a balanced approach between respecting privacy and being understanding and setting ground rules based on the needs of the business.
