Substance use disorder (SUD) affects nearly 49 million Americans, with significant consequences for individuals, families, workplaces, and communities. Recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges, AMHC is proud to be a designated Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW), underscoring its commitment to fostering wellness, reducing stigma, and supporting employees in recovery.
What Does It Mean to Be a Recovery-Friendly Workplace?
A Recovery Friendly Workplace supports individuals in recovery from substance use disorders by promoting a safe, healthy, and stigma-free environment. Rather than lowering standards, RFWs enhance support systems, empowering employees to succeed at work and in life. This commitment involves recognizing recovery as a strength, treating SUD as a health condition, and offering resources and policies that break down barriers for employees impacted by addiction.
The Benefits of Recovery-Friendly Workplaces
For Businesses:
- Increased Retention & Productivity: Employees in recovery are more likely to stay with their employers and are less likely to miss work due to illness or absenteeism.
- Cost Savings: According to the National Safety Council, workers in recovery save companies over $8,500 annually and help avoid $4,088 in turnover and replacement costs.
- Access to Skilled Talent: RFWs tap into a broader talent pool, benefiting from the skills and dedication of workers in recovery.
For Employees:
- Improved Mental Health: Employees who access RFW resources report better self-image, increased confidence, and improved mental health.
- A Renewed Sense of Purpose: Having meaningful work supports long-term recovery and helps individuals better navigate life's challenges.
- Lower Absenteeism: Workers in recovery miss an average of 10.9 days annually, compared to 24.6 days for employees with untreated SUD.
Why Recovery-Friendly Workplaces Matter to the Community
In a state like Maine, where substance use costs $1.4 billion annually across law enforcement, healthcare, and workforce impacts, initiatives like RFWs are critical. Employers like AMHC play a significant role in addressing these challenges and strengthening the community by reducing stigma, engaging in advocacy, and supporting recovery.
Creating recovery-friendly environments also helps address broader economic and social challenges:
- $249 billion is lost annually to alcohol use disorders nationwide.
- $193 billion is lost annually due to illicit and non-prescribed drug use.
- Employers lose over $100 billion annually to issues stemming from substance use.
When businesses invest in recovery-friendly practices, they improve employee well-being and contribute to healthier, more resilient communities.
How AMHC Leads the Way
AMHC has adopted policies and practices that promote wellness, reduce stigma, and provide access to recovery resources as part of the Recovery Friendly Downeast initiative. The organization recognizes the intersection of employment and recovery as a vital component of workforce development. AMHC's commitment to being a Recovery Friendly Employer aligns with its mission to support individuals and families impacted by SUD, helping them reach their full potential.
Reducing Stigma in the Workplace
One of the most important aspects of being an RFW is addressing stigma. At AMHC, this includes:
- Using person-first, stigma-free language.
- Sharing information about recovery resources from the pre-employment stages onward.
- Advocating for recovery in the workplace and the broader community.
Recovery Is Wellness
Supporting employees in recovery isn't just about addressing SUD—it's about fostering wellness in every aspect of life. As the Global Wellness Institute defines wellness, it is "the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to holistic health." Recovery, as outlined by SAMHSA, is a process of change that enables individuals to improve their health, live self-directed lives, and achieve their full potential.
AMHC's dedication to being a Recovery Friendly Workplace embodies these principles, creating opportunities for employees and the community to thrive.
To learn more about Recovery Friendly Workplaces and their benefits, visit:
