Addiction problems are not just a human tragedy – they are a business problem with significant economic consequences. Alcohol and drug-related problems are estimated to cost employers between 3 and 4% of the total annual wage bill, including social security contributions.
According to the Swedish Work Environment Authority, a two-month period of sick leave due to burnout can cost the employer almost SEK 400 000, mainly through loss of production. For key employees, the figures can be even higher.
Although addiction is common in the workplace, there is still a strong stigma attached to it. This means that many problems are detected too late. A common misconception is that addiction only affects people in vulnerable situations – but the reality is different. Studies from the US show that up to 93% of people with addiction problems have full-time employment and function seemingly normally at work. Our own estimates show that the situation in Sweden is similar.