A drug addiction hotline in Virginia can help you understand the benefits of employee-assistance programs for substance use disorders. Recent advances in drug and alcohol abuse treatment have shown that addressing addiction is not just a personal matter, it’s also a workplace concern. Employers are increasingly recognizing the impact of addiction on productivity, safety, and employee wellbeing.

The National Drug Helpline is a toll-free number 1-844-289-0879 that operates 24/7 including weekends and holidays. We can give you instant access to updated information about addiction treatment in Virginia. All calls to the helpline are answered by trained and knowledgeable professionals who can help you find local resources and offer guidance in a safe, non-judgmental, and private space.

Call 1-844-289-0789 today to discuss your concerns and get answers to all your questions about substance abuse and addiction recovery in Virginia. Complete privacy and confidentiality are guaranteed for yourself or your loved one. Find drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, Chesapeake, Newport News, and other communities in Virginia.

VIRGINIA SUBSTANCE ABUSE RESOURCES

SUBSTANCE ABUSE BY YOUTH IN VIRGINIA

The Virginia Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2021 showed the following findings among 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders in the state: [1]

ALCOHOL USE

  • Percentage of students who had their first alcoholic drink before age 13 years: 14.0%
  • Percentage of students who currently drank alcohol: 19.4%
  • Percentage of students who were currently engaged in binge drinking on at least 1 day in the past 30 days: 10.5%

MARIJUANA USE

  • Percentage of students who tried marijuana for the first time before age 13 years: 3.5%
  • Percentage of students who used currently used marijuana in the past 30 days: 13.3%

EXPOSURE TO DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

  • Percentage of students who were ever offered, given, or sold an illegal drug on school property: 9.0%

SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN VIRGINIA

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports the following with regards to substance use in Virginia: [2]

YOUTH AGED 12-17 YEARS

  • Past-month marijuana use was reported by 5.5% of adolescents in 2017-2019 compared to 7.5% in 2002-2004. During a similar timeframe, the US national average decreased from 7.9% in 2002-2004 to 6.8% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-month alcohol use was reported by 8.9% of youth in 2017-2019 compared to 16.4% in 2002-2004. The US national average also showed a downward trend from 17.6% in 2002-2004 to 9.4% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-month illicit drug use was reported by 7.2% of Virginia teens aged 12-17 years in 2017-2019 compared to 6.7% in 2015-2017. The US national average was stable at 8.2% during this time.
  • Past-year initiation of substances (first lifetime use) was reported by youth as follows during 2017-2019: Alcohol 9.5% (US average 9.3%), marijuana 4.5% (US average 5.2%), and cigarettes 2.1% (US average 2.3%).

Marijuana and alcohol use among adolescents in Virginia have shown positive trends with decreased usage in 2019 compared to 2002. However, illicit drug use has increased slightly during this timeframe, although it is lower than the US national average.

YOUNG ADULTS AGED 18-25 YEARS

The data for young adults aged 18-25 years in Virginia is as follows:

  • Past-year marijuana use was reported by 32.6% of young adults in Virginia in 2017-2019 compared to 30.1% in 2002-2004. During a similar timeframe, the US national average increased from 28.7% in 2002-2004 to 35.0% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder was reported in 5.9% of young adults aged 18-25 years in Virginia in 2017-2019, compared to 6.5% in 2002-2004. The US national average changed from 6.0% in 2002-2004 to 5.6% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year opioid use disorder was reported in 0.8% of young adults in Virginia in 2017-2019 compared to 1.0% in 2015-2017. The US national average changed from 1.3% in 2015-2017 to 1.0% in 2017-2019.
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder was reported in 7.9% of Virginia residents aged 18-25 years in 2017-2019 compared to 6.1% in 2015-2017. The US national average was around 7.2% to 7.5% during this time period.
  • Past-month binge alcohol use was reported by 36.6% of young adults in 2017-2019 compared to 38.7% in 2015-2017. The US national average in 2017-2019 was 35.4% showing binge alcohol use in Virginia is slightly higher than the country as a whole.
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder among young adults aged 18-25 was reported in 10.1% of Virginia residents in 2017-2019, compared to 18.2% in 2002-2004. The US national average for 2017-2019 was 9.8%. Virginia therefore has a slightly higher percentage of young adults battling alcohol use disorder compared to the US average for all states.
  • Past-year substance use disorder was reported in 15.0% of young adults aged 18-25 years in Virginia in 2017-2019 compared to 14.4% in 2015-2017. The national average has hovered between 15.1% and 14.7% during this time.

VIRGINIA RESIDENTS 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

The Behavioral Health Barometer also found the following for 2017-2019 in Virginia residents aged 12 years and older:

  • Past-year tobacco use: 25.5% (US average 26.8%)
  • Past-year marijuana use: 12.1% (US average 16.2%)
  • Past-year marijuana use disorder: 1.4% (US average 1.6%)
  • Past-year heroin use: 0.37% (US average 0.30%)
  • Past-year prescription painkiller misuse: 3.3% (US average 3.7%)
  • Past-year opioid use disorder: 0.7% (US average 0.7%)
  • Past-year illicit drug use disorder: 2.8% (US average 2.9%)
  • Past-year alcohol use disorder: 5.1% (US average 5.3%)
  • Past-year substance use disorder: 6.9% (US average 7.4%)
  • Number of people enrolled in substance use treatment (single day counts for 2019): 25,609
  • Number of people enrolled in opioid treatment programs (single day counts for 2019): 8,046
  • Problems among people enrolled in treatment: 57.5% drug problem only, 12.0% alcohol problem only, 30.5% both drug and alcohol problems
A woman standing in front of several employees providing training in an office.

WHAT ROLE CAN EMPLOYERS PLAY IN ADDICTION RECOVERY?

Employers and workplaces can play a vital role in addiction recovery. Here are some of the ways they can help.

Employee-Assistance Programs (EAPs)

When you are struggling with a substance use disorder, your workplace can be a source of support through EAPs that provide confidential counseling services and resources to help you overcome addiction. These programs connect you with licensed counselors who can guide you through the recovery process, offer coping strategies, and provide referrals to treatment facilities, if needed. EAPs emphasize confidentiality, ensuring that your struggles with addiction remain a private matter.

Drug Testing Policies

Many workplaces have drug testing policies in place to ensure employee safety and productivity. These policies are designed to identify and deter substance use that could impair job performance or pose a safety risk. While drug testing may seem invasive, it’s implemented with the best intentions and ensures everyone in the workplace is fit to perform their duties safely.

Education and Prevention

Many employers take a proactive approach towards addiction. They understand the value of prevention and education in addressing substance use disorders. For example, your workplace might organize workshops or training sessions to educate employees about the risks of substance abuse and the available resources if you are battling addiction. These initiatives create a culture of awareness and support, making it easier for you to seek assistance.

Supportive Environment

A supportive environment in the workplace can be a critical factor in ensuring successful recovery from substance abuse. Having colleagues and supervisors who are understanding and empathetic can significantly enhance the recovery process. Some companies promote a culture of care and inclusivity, encouraging open communication about addiction-related challenges and offering flexible work arrangements when needed.

Health Insurance Benefits

Access to addiction treatment services can become more manageable through health insurance benefits provided by your employer. Comprehensive insurance plans cover addiction treatment, including therapy, medications, and rehabilitation programs. Having these services within reach is a lifeline for many people struggling with addiction.

Call the National Drug Helpline on 1-844-289-0879 to find out what role your workplace can play in overcoming addiction. We can help you understand employee assistance programs, drug testing policies, education, and support initiatives and inspire you to seek help, recover, and thrive. Remember, you are not alone in your struggle. The National Drug Helpline and your workplace can be valuable allies in your recovery journey.

References:

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Virginia Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2021. Available online. Accessed on September 12, 2023.
  2. SAMHSA. Behavioral Health Barometer Virginia. Available online. Accessed on September 12, 2023.
  3. National Library of Medicine. Employee Assistance Programs. Available online. Accessed on September 12, 2023.

Last updated: September 12, 2023