October is National Substance Use Prevention Month! It’s a time to raise awareness, strengthen prevention efforts, and build healthier communities. For small business owners, it’s also an opportunity to focus on employee wellbeing and workplace safety.
According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), millions of Americans reported using alcohol, nicotine, or illicit drugs in the past month. About 16–17% of people aged 12 and older met the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD) in the most recent report, reminding us that substance use affects every industry and community.¹
SAMHSA’s research also shows that substance use patterns vary by industry. Some sectors, like construction, food service, and entertainment, face higher risks, while others see lower rates.² For small businesses, understanding these differences can help tailor prevention strategies that make sense for their teams.
Prevention in the workplace doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Start with a clear, written policy that outlines expectations and explains available resources , like time off for treatment or local counseling referrals. The National Drug-Free Workplace Alliance has a membership program that can help you with a policy template. (find out more at www.ndwa.org).
Training managers and staff can also make a big impact. Even a short session on recognizing impairment, starting supportive conversations, and connecting employees to resources can reduce risks and stigma. If your business doesn’t have an Employee Assistance Program, you can still share SAMHSA’s Treatment Services Locator to assist employees seeking confidential help.3
This October, small actions can make a big difference. Share prevention messages on your company’s bulletin board or social media, host a quick lunch-and-learn, or send a note reminding employees that prevention is about safety and care, and not about punishment.
When small businesses lead with compassion and clear policies, they build workplaces that are safer, stronger, and more resilient. Prevention isn’t just good for employees—it’s good for business.
Citations
¹ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2024). National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) Annual Report. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2024-nsduh-annual-national-report
² Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2020). Substance Use and Substance Use Disorder by Industry. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/report_1959/ShortReport-1959.html
3 Home - FindTreatment.gov. (n.d.). FindTreatment.gov. https://findtreatment.gov/
