As cannabis use becomes more prevalent in the U.S., research is uncovering its potential impact on the workforce. A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reveals a concerning link between frequent cannabis use, cannabis use disorder (CUD), and workplace absenteeism. The findings suggest that frequent cannabis users are more likely to miss work, which could have implications for employers across various industries.
Cannabis Use and Workplace Absenteeism
Researchers analyzed data from the 2021-2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which included nearly 46,500 full-time employees in the U.S. Their analysis found a strong connection between cannabis use and increased workplace absenteeism, including both days missed due to illness or injury and days skipped without reason.
Employees who reported cannabis use in the past month were more likely to miss work compared to those who had never used cannabis. Specifically, those who used cannabis once or twice a month were 57% more likely to skip work, while those who used it 20 to 30 days a month were 83% more likely to miss work.
The data also showed a clear link between cannabis use disorder and absenteeism, with individuals suffering from severe CUD being nearly three times as likely to miss work as non-users.
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) and Its Effects
Cannabis use disorder is characterized by the inability to stop using cannabis despite its negative effects on health, relationships, and daily life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 10% of cannabis users develop CUD, and the risk is higher for individuals who begin using cannabis in adolescence or use it frequently.
The CDC identifies several warning signs of CUD, including:
- Continuing cannabis use despite physical or psychological problems
- Craving or needing cannabis to feel normal
- Giving up important activities to use cannabis
- Trying but failing to stop using cannabis
- Using cannabis in high-risk situations, such as while driving
- Needing to use more cannabis to get the same high
The study also explored the impact of cannabis use disorder (CUD) on workplace absenteeism, with findings indicating that employees with CUD were even more likely to miss work due to illness or injury and to skip work altogether. A pattern of problematic cannabis use that leads to significant distress or impairment defines CUD, which comes with varying levels of severity.
Workers with mild CUD were 46% more likely to miss work due to illness or injury compared to those without the disorder. Employees with moderate and severe CUD experienced even higher rates of absenteeism. The most severe cases of CUD were associated with a nearly threefold increase in the likelihood of missing work due to illness or injury compared to non-users. Similar trends were observed for skipping work altogether.
This “dose-response relationship” between CUD severity and absenteeism highlights the critical role that cannabis use disorder plays in workplace attendance. The findings reinforce the need for targeted interventions aimed at reducing cannabis-related absenteeism in the workplace.
The Need for Workplace Prevention Programs
The growing body of evidence linking cannabis use and workplace absenteeism underscores the need for targeted workplace prevention strategies. As cannabis use becomes more prevalent, companies should implement programs that focus on education, screening, and access to treatment for employees at risk of problematic cannabis use.
Workplace policies should emphasize substance use prevention and provide resources such as:
- Workplace Education: Educate employees about the effects of cannabis use, particularly its impact on workplace performance and health.
- Support for Affected Employees: Offer support and resources for those struggling with CUD, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), counseling, or treatment programs.
- Consistent Enforcement: Ensure that workplace drug policies are up-to-date and consistently enforced to address this growing concern.
- Transparent Substance Use Policies: Research has shown that workplaces with written substance use policies and education programs are more likely to see lower rates of cannabis and illicit substance use among employees.
The Path Forward
As more states legalize cannabis, its use among employees is likely to rise. Employers need to be proactive in addressing the potential consequences of cannabis use on workplace productivity and absenteeism. By implementing evidence-based prevention programs and providing support for employees struggling with cannabis use, organizations can mitigate the negative impact of cannabis on the workplace.
The findings from recent studies serve as a wake-up call for employers and public health officials alike. As cannabis use continues to grow, so too does the importance of creating healthier, more supportive workplace environments. Addressing the issue now, through prevention and intervention, can ensure a better future for employees and employers alike.
The cultural perception of cannabis may be changing but its potential to impact workplace performance cannot be ignored. By understanding the risks associated with cannabis use and providing the necessary resources for employees, companies can create a healthier and more productive work environment.
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