Employees

Employees

Employees

Wellbeing | Alcohol & Drugs – Spotting the Signs

8th August, 2024

by

Our Wellbeing focus for July and August is Drugs and Alcohol.

Drugs and alcohol related problems can harm your health, cause disability and in some cases can be fatal. Drugs and alcohol can affect your behaviour and ability to carry out everyday activities. Anyone under the influence risks injury to themselves and also could place their colleagues, friends or family in danger or in the difficult position of being expected to cover for unsafe work practices.

Spotting the Signs of Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Recognising the signs of drug and alcohol abuse can be challenging, as individuals often go to great lengths to conceal their habits. However, there are common indicators that can help you identify potential problems.

Changes in Behaviour

One of the most noticeable signs of substance abuse is a change in behaviour. This might include:

  • Secretiveness: A sudden interest in privacy or avoiding social situations.
  • Mood swings: Unpredictable emotional changes, such as irritability, aggression, or depression.
  • Isolation: Withdrawing from friends and family or spending less time on hobbies and interests.
  • Changes in relationships: Strained relationships with loved ones, or conflicts with friends and family.
  • Neglect of responsibilities: Difficulty meeting work or school obligations, or a decline in performance.
  • Financial problems: Unexpected financial difficulties, such as borrowing money or selling possessions.

Physical Signs

Physical symptoms can also be indicative of substance abuse:

  • Changes in appearance: Neglect of personal hygiene, weight loss or gain, or red or bloodshot eyes.
  • Physical health issues: Frequent illnesses, digestive problems, or sleep disturbances.
  • Tremors or shaking: Physical instability, or difficulty coordinating movements.
  • Needle marks: Visible signs of injection drug use.

Changes in Habits

Alterations in routine or habits can also be a red flag:

  • Changes in sleep patterns: Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping.
  • Changes in appetite: Loss of appetite or increased cravings for unhealthy foods.
  • Increased tolerance: Requiring more of a substance to achieve the desired effect.
  • Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical or emotional discomfort when not using the substance.

It’s important to remember that these are general signs, and not everyone who exhibits these behaviours has a substance abuse problem. Other factors, such as mental health conditions, could also be contributing to these changes.

If you suspect that someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, it’s essential to approach them with care and compassion. Avoid confrontation and judgment. Instead, express your concern and offer support. Encourage them to seek professional help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help. Here are some resources:

Please also refer to our poster with QR codes to the above organisations. Please share this on your Wellbeing and workplace notice boards. You can find the poster on the UK News download page HERE.

Our Employee Assistance Programme

Cemex offers all employees a free, confidential employee assistance programme (EAP) called Lifestyle Support. Available 24/7, it is run by a separate provider and not part of Cemex. The company does not receive any employee specific information. You can contact The EAP for confidential advice and support – by calling 0808 168 2143 or visit www.lifestyle-support.co.uk (Username: cemex  Password:  cemex).