One in five workers are struggling with illegal substance use, according to the latest Laya Healthcare Workplace Wellbeing Index.
Launched on Tuesday at Croke Park, the comprehensive annual report, now in its fifth year, provides insights into the evolving landscape of employee wellbeing in Ireland.
The 2024 Index reveals that 16 per cent of employees are addicted to or have an unhealthy relationship with Class A or illicit drugs.
Overall, two in five Irish workers report addiction to or an unhealthy relationship with at least one substance, with nicotine (29 per cent) and alcohol (21 per cent) being the most prevalent.
The data shows that men, those aged 24 and under, and those with a disability or health condition, are more likely to struggle with addiction.
Senior managers are also more likely to report unhealthy relationships with substances compared to those in more junior roles.
Beyond substance use, the Index highlights the growing prevalence of other addictions impacting the workplace.
Almost a third of workers (33 per cent) admit to an unhealthy relationship with social media, while 30 per cent report the same about work itself.
One in five respondents identify similar struggles with pornography or sex, mirroring the figure (19 per cent) for gambling addiction.
Head of health and wellbeing at Laya Healthcare, Sinéad Proos, said: “Employers should recognise addiction as a serious issue impacting Irish workplaces, encompassing substance use, gambling, and social media.
"While these results are concerning, they also present a valuable opportunity for employers to prioritise employee wellbeing.
"By fostering a supportive culture and providing access to resources like counselling and employee assistance programs, we can support and empower employees to make the first steps towards improving their health and wellbeing.”
Health conditions
The Index also sheds light on the prevalence of health conditions and disabilities among Irish workers.
A significant one in two employees report living with an underlying health condition or mental wellbeing issue. Anxiety and depression are the most commonly cited conditions, with one in ten Irish employees having a diagnosis of depression.
The data reveals a disconnect between employees and their organisations regarding these issues. 54 per cent of those with a health condition or disability admit they would be embarrassed to speak to their employer about it, while one in two with a mental health condition fear being treated differently if they disclose it to their employer.
Furthermore, nearly half of all employees (48 per cent) are unaware of the support resources available to them.
The Index highlights the disparity in diagnosis rates between physical and mental health conditions. People with physical conditions are more likely to have a formal diagnosis than those with mental health or communication difficulties.
For example, while most people with a visual or hearing impairment have been diagnosed, the rates are significantly lower for anxiety and speech and language problems.
