Employee substance abuse is a growing concern for businesses in New Jersey. Whether it involves alcohol use, prescription pain medication, or other drug use disorders, the impact on productivity, safety, and employee well-being is significant. According to recent statistics from the New Jersey Substance Use Overview, more than 82,000 individuals were admitted to treatment programs last year, highlighting the ongoing challenge of substance use disorder (SUD) in our state. Greenbranch Recovery’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in Egg Harbor Township helps employers promote recovery and wellness in their workforce. Contact us today at 609-622-5101 to learn more. 

The Hidden Costs of Substance Use in the Workplace

Substance misuse doesn’t just affect individuals, it affects entire workplaces. The National Safety Council reports that untreated substance use can drive up health care costs by nearly $1,870 per affected employee annually. 

Workplaces with high levels of stress or inadequate policies may inadvertently contribute to increased alcohol use or other drug misuse. Substance misuse in the workplace can also result in serious safety hazards, particularly in industries where heavy machinery, driving, or emergency response is involved. 

Substance use disorders have also been linked to unscheduled leave, absenteeism, and other forms of lost productivity. Many employers underestimate the potential costs of untreated substance misuse, which may include legal liability, damage to workplace culture, and the negative consequences of reduced morale and employee engagement. Moreover, businesses in New Jersey face growing pressure to create safer, more inclusive environments where employees feel empowered to seek help.

The Role of EAPs in Supporting New Jersey Employees

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are a powerful tool for employers seeking to support their teams. EAPs offer confidential, short-term counseling, assessments, and referrals to help employees manage personal and professional challenges, including substance use. In New Jersey, many employers are integrating EAPs into broader wellness and retention strategies, ensuring employees have access to support before substance use escalates into crisis.

EAPs are especially critical in industries with high stress or safety-sensitive roles, such as healthcare, education, transportation, and public administration. These programs reduce the stigma of seeking help and provide a direct pathway to recovery. They also improve workplace culture and morale, fostering a recovery-ready environment that protects employees and supports long-term well-being.

In a 2024 report by the Partnership to End Addiction, EAPs were shown to reduce absenteeism, lower health care claims, and improve employee retention. Companies that invest in EAP education and promotion are more likely to see improved productivity and reduced negative consequences tied to substance misuse. If you’re interested in learning more, call Greenbranch Recovery today at 609-622-5101.

Greenbranch Recovery: A Trusted EAP Partner in New Jersey

Greenbranch Recovery is a leading addiction treatment provider in New Jersey offering compassionate care tailored for working professionals. We specialize in addiction treatment for professionals, supporting those in high-responsibility careers who are quietly struggling with alcohol use disorders, pain medication dependency, or illicit drug use.

Our evidence-based services include Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), individual and group therapy, recovery coaching, and family education. As an EAP-compatible provider, we work closely with employers to ensure seamless referrals, discreet care, and return-to-work support for employees.

We are committed to helping New Jersey companies create supportive environments that protect employee well-being and reduce the long-term risks of untreated substance use disorders. Our clients include professionals across healthcare, law, education, and public service sectors who benefit from our stigma-free, trauma-informed approach.

Building a Recovery-Ready Workplace in New Jersey

Employers in New Jersey are increasingly adopting proactive measures to address substance misuse. This includes implementing comprehensive workplace policies, offering paid time for treatment, and creating clear paths for second chance employment. These steps not only support recovery but also signal a commitment to employee mental health and overall well-being.

Practical strategies include:

  • Educating managers and co-workers about signs of substance misuse and how to initiate EAP referrals
  • Normalizing discussions around addiction, recovery, and mental health through internal campaigns
  • Offering workplace accommodations that allow employees to attend treatment without fear of retaliation
  • Ensuring health insurance plans cover necessary levels of care, including MAT and outpatient services
  • Establishing return-to-work assistance programs that include coaching, follow-ups, and performance planning

These practices build trust, reduce stigma, and demonstrate that companies are invested in their employees’ long-term health and productivity. When employees know they can seek treatment without judgment, the entire organization benefits.

Addressing Broader Impacts on Workplace Health

Employee substance abuse often intersects with other health challenges. Co-occurring mental health conditions, family stressors, and economic hardship can exacerbate substance use. EAPs are designed to address this complexity by offering holistic support that includes referrals to behavioral health specialists, social services, and financial counseling.

Substance misuse can also negatively impact co-workers, especially in team-based environments. A single employee struggling with substance use may cause ripple effects in morale, workload distribution, and interpersonal trust. Investing in prevention, education, and treatment through EAPs and partnerships with providers like Greenbranch Recovery creates a healthier ecosystem for all employees.

Partner with Greenbranch Recovery To Help Employees

Greenbranch Recovery in Egg Harbor Township offers a trusted, local solution for employers looking to support team members with dignity and discretion. We partner with businesses and organizations throughout New Jersey to offer:

  • Rapid-access treatment
  • Coordination with EAPs and HR
  • Professional-level care tailored to job demands
  • Confidentiality and respect every step of the way

Our team understands the importance of timely, respectful treatment that fits into the demands of a professional lifestyle. Whether you’re a small business, a school district, or a large organization, we can help your team members return to work with renewed confidence and clarity.

Take the First Step Today

Substance use disorders are treatable, and recovery is possible—especially when companies lead with compassion and clarity. Greenbranch Recovery stands ready to support your organization with tailored addiction treatment services designed for working professionals. Together, we can create safer, healthier workplaces across New Jersey. Contact us today at 609-622-5101 to learn how Greenbranch Recovery can support your employees through EAP partnerships and professional treatment solutions.