Semester 2 2025 (705890) - DUE 15 August 2025;
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Substance Abuse Education
and Support
1. Introduction / Background (10 marks)
Substance abuse in the workplace is a serious concern that affects not
only the individual employee but also the overall productivity, safety,
and culture of the organization. According to Nova Recovery Center
(2020), employees dealing with substance abuse issues are less
productive, more prone to absenteeism, and more likely to experience
workplace injuries. Additionally, such employees are at a higher risk of
making mistakes, encountering conflicts with supervisors, and facing
disciplinary actions.
Substance abuse does not occur in a vacuum; it is often the result of a
combination of psychological, social, and environmental stressors. In the
context of the workplace, job stress, high performance demands, lack of
support, and poor work-life balance can contribute to the development or
exacerbation of substance use disorders. Moreover, the stigma
surrounding mental health and addiction often prevents employees from
seeking help, further deteriorating their condition and increasing the
negative impact on the workplace.
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential service that
offers employees access to counselling, education, and support for a
variety of personal and work-related issues, including substance abuse.
Historically, EAPs were introduced as a reactive solution to workplace
problems, but modern EAPs take a proactive, wellness-focused approach