The National Safety Council (NSC) recently issued a news release for employers regarding increased employee substance misuse due to COVID-19. As described in the article, NSC is calling on employers to prioritize employee stress, emotional and mental health both now and as employees return to traditional work environments. Additionally, NSC notes that economic distress, unemployment, and extended social isolation increase the risk for mental health issues and substance use disorders. The organization provides recommendations for employers in its Stress, Emotional and Mental Health Considerations Playbook and created a “how-to” guide for addressing employee stress and anxiety regarding returning to work. These resources are included as part of a larger NSC-led initiative called SAFER: Safe Actions for Employee Returns.
- Ann Tucker