“Addiction is a family disease. One person uses it, and the whole family suffers.” This quote from Shelly Lewis highlights how addiction can impact entire communities. And yes, it includes workplaces, too.
If you frequently notice one of your colleague’s persistent lateness, erratic behavior, or sudden decline in performance, you may feel concerned. But at the same time, you are uncertain about how to approach the situation. How do you offer help without overstepping?
Supporting a colleague through addiction isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. Here’s how you can step up when you notice someone struggling and create a supportive work environment while respecting boundaries.
Recognize the signs of addiction
Recognizing that a coworker is dealing with addiction is the very first step, but it’s also important to do this without jumping to conclusions. Addiction can manifest in different ways, which can include behavioral changes like mood swings, increased absenteeism, or a sudden drop in work quality.
You might also notice physical signs such as changes in appearance, fatigue, or even intoxication during work hours.
The key here is to stay observant without assuming the worst. Avoid diagnosing or making comments about their behavior in front of others. Addiction is a deeply personal struggle, and a false assumption could harm both your relationship and the individual’s mental health.
Instead, focus on patterns of behavior that may signal deeper issues, and remain compassionate and discreet in your approach.
Create a safe space for open conversations
It’s uncomfortable to approach someone about addiction, but ignoring the problem often makes it worse. When the time feels right, find a private setting and initiate a conversation.
It’s important to express concern without sounding accusatory or judgemental. You can use statements like, “I’ve noticed you seem overwhelmed lately” instead of “You’re messing up at work.” This subtle shift in language makes a big difference in how your concern is received.
Most importantly, listen more than you talk. People going through the tough phase of addiction might feel ashamed or defensive, and they need a non-judgemental ear.
Offer support by letting them share their story and by reassuring them that you’re here to help, not punish; keep the conversation confidential, as trust is vital in these situations.
Suggest professional help
You’re not a therapist, and don’t try to be one. While providing emotional support is helpful, addiction is a serious health issue that often requires professional intervention. Encouraging your colleague to seek professional help is one of the best things you can do.
There could be many resources for it like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) if your workplace offers them or local treatment centers or outpatient services like counseling.
You can also suggest your colleague go to a rehab nearby. Every state and most cities have them. For example, in California, Malibu is a great natural place to be; Malibu substance abuse treatment centers provide personalized care in a serene environment. But remember, your role is to guide them toward help—not to force them into it.
Offer a few options like the above to empower your colleagues to take the next step when they’re ready. Make sure you respect their autonomy.
Establish boundaries and maintain professionalism
Supporting someone with an addiction is not easy. It can be emotionally draining, especially if you don’t set clear boundaries. You want to help, but you also need to protect your well-being. This is where the balance between support and enabling comes in.
It’s important to be available for your colleague, but don’t let their struggle affect your work performance or personal life. For example, if they’re constantly asking for favors or shifts without reciprocating, it may be time to have a gentle but firm conversation about what you can and can’t do. Recommend them to seek professional help rather than relying solely on you.
Maintaining professionalism in the workplace is also important. Addiction doesn’t excuse poor work performance or inappropriate behavior. While offering support is crucial, the individual is still responsible for meeting work expectations, and if necessary, you may need to involve HR or management in addressing issues that impact the team.
Form a culture of support and understanding
As a colleague, you can advocate for a workplace culture that promotes mental health and encourages people to speak up about personal challenges, including addiction.
Reducing the stigma around addiction begins with education. Suggest your HR to organize workshops or invite experts to speak on addiction and mental health topics.
When leaders and employees alike are educated on these topics, they’re less likely to judge someone who admits they’re struggling. This creates an atmosphere of support and makes it easier for individuals to seek help before their addiction spirals out of control.
A supportive culture also means having policies in place that protect employees seeking help. For example, employees should be able to access rehab programs or take time off for treatment without fear of losing their jobs.
Offer ongoing support
Addiction recovery isn’t linear, and setbacks are common. If your colleague confides in you, be prepared to offer ongoing support. Recovery is a long-term journey.
This doesn’t mean you have to be their sole support system, but simple gestures like checking in regularly or offering a listening ear can be incredibly valuable.
Patience is required here. Recovery takes time, and there will be moments when your colleague may feel discouraged or even relapse. While relapse is a part of many people’s recovery, it’s important not to shame them for it. Instead, offer words of encouragement and remind them that setbacks don’t erase progress.
That said, know your limits. If their addiction continues to impact the workplace severely, you may need to escalate the situation to HR or management for further action.
Conclusion
Supporting a colleague struggling with addiction requires a balance of empathy, professionalism, and personal boundaries. We’ve explained in this blog how you can offer meaningful support without overstepping.
It’s also important to remember that addiction is a complex issue, and your colleague’s recovery isn’t something you can control. But by being a consistent source of support and encouragement, you can contribute to their healing process in ways that matter.
Your little help and support can save someone’s career, family, and life.
