FEATURE
Workplace Methamphetamine Abuse Continues to Grow

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 12 million Americans have tried Methamphetamine, also known as meth and speed, and its presence in the workplace continues to dramatically increase.

Following an alarming jump of 44% in 2003, according to Quest Diagnostics, the number of positive drug tests for amphetamines - of which meth is the most popular - grew by 6% last year. Quest officials point to the deterring power of pre-employment drug tests as one possible explanation for the slower rate of growth in 2004.

The cost of meth addiction to employers is staggering. A recent University of Arkansas study discovered that businesses in Benton County (population: 170,000) were losing an estimated $21 million annually due to employee meth abuse. These costs were primarily attributed to absenteeism and lost productivity.

"Drug abuse in the workplace is decreasing, but methamphetamine-positive (drug tests) are increasing," says Mark de Bernardo, executive director of the Institute for a Drug-Free Workplace. "Methamphetamine can create a more violent behavior…with anxiety and paranoia, and workplace violence is a major concern for employers."

Many meth users first turn to the drug to improve job performance. Effects of initial usage include increased alertness and concentration, which makes it popular among a broad range of employees across varying industries who must remain alert while working long hours.

To try to combat abuse, more than 60% of employers screen employees or applicants for illegal drugs, according to the American Management Association.

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(source: http://www.usatoday.com)