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'Taboo subject' | Addiction in the workplace: the silent struggle employers can't afford to ignore

Illustration showing substance abuse addicts getting help
Illustration showing substance abuse addicts getting help

From after-work drinks to the pressures of meeting back-to-back deadlines, the modern workplace is no stranger to stress. But for many, these pressures aren’t just something to brush off at the end of the day - they can be a gateway to something much more serious. 

According to new research from Bupa, more than one in three workers have either used or witnessed addictive behaviours or substance use during working hours. And with more than half of UK employees saying they’ve personally struggled with addiction, it’s clear the issue is far more widespread than many employers may realise.

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