Addiction is complex, with each individual having unique triggers and motivations.  In the workplace, its effects can be significant — impacting productivity, attendance, safety, team dynamics, and employee wellbeing. Addiction can affect not only the individual but also colleagues, managers, and the wider organisational culture, making early awareness and supportive interventions essential.

• Financial difficulty, debt and bankruptcy
• Relationship breakdown (including divorce)
• Isolation and loneliness
• Low self-esteem, depression, stress and anxiety
  

So how does this affect business?  

• Safety risks
• Absenteeism and Presenteeism
• Reduced productivity and work quality
• Conflict and team disruption
• Mental health and wellbeing challenges
  

Wellbeing programmes should raise awareness of all types of addiction, including substance use, gambling, gaming, and other behavioural addictions. Recognising their impact on mental health and workplace wellbeing is essential for supporting employees and maintaining a healthy, productive workforce.

Employees affected by addiction may experience reduced focus and concentration at work, and particular attention should be given to those in high-risk roles. Individuals with significant decision-making responsibility, access to financial systems, or roles critical to safety can pose substantial risks to the organisation.

Certain addictions can have severe financial or behavioural consequences that may affect an individual’s judgement and decision-making. Organisations with robust compliance, anti-bribery, and risk management processes should be aware of these behaviours and the potential risks they pose.

Policies should prevent addictive behaviours at work while encouraging employees to seek support when needed. Workplace policies should be accessible to all staff and make it clear that disclosing an addiction will not result in discrimination.

There are many instances where employees have acted unethically or misused resources to support an addiction. Harmful behaviours linked to addiction can also damage an organisation’s reputation if left unaddressed.

Addiction can affect employees of any age, gender, or income level. Some may struggle with gambling or trading, including crypto, while others turn to alcohol or behavioural addictions as a way of coping with stress. Younger employees are increasingly affected by online and digital addictions. Organisations need to recognise that anyone can be at risk and ensure support is available for all.

Addiction

Awareness & Education

Training/Workshops

• For Employees
• For Managers and HR professionals
• The impact of addiction in the workplace, from wellbeing to HR policy and business risk.
• Gain an increased awareness and understanding of addiction harms.
• The steps managers can take to support their people and business.
• The help and advice available to those affected by addiction.
• Be able to identify and recognise the signs of addiction, and know how and where to signpost for additional support.

Guest Speaker

Project Wellbeing's founder Chris Gawor has lived experience of gambling addiction and the effect it has on mental health, and your personal and working life.

His unique perspective on the impact of gambling, both as a leader running successful commercial teams throughout his career, and as someone with a 12 year addiction to day trading stocks and shares, creates a powerful message to teams and managers.

He is determined to break down the stigma and shame associated with addiction by helping businesses raise awareness and prepare for policy and risk management implications.

Addiction

Policy Advisory

Addiction can affect any employee and is often hidden, creating risks for wellbeing, performance, and organisational reputation.

Policies and programmes should address all types of addiction, combining compliance with proactive support.

This ensures employees have access to guidance and help while protecting the business through integrated wellbeing, HR, and governance frameworks.