What is a Workplace Intervention?
A workplace intervention is a structured, solution-focused process that consists of a group of co-workers, colleagues, close friends, family members and others (spiritual advisors, etc.) who come together in a caring and non-judgmental manner to present their observations and concerns regarding an addict’s behavior.
A well-executed intervention is professionally facilitated and aims to move the workplace system out of crisis and assists in immediately addressing addiction.
AIR Model for Workplace Interventions
The AIR model of workplace intervention is built on the concept of Carefrontation and incorporates primary aspects of the Family Systems and the Johnson Institute models of intervention. The Carefrontation model, pioneered by James Fearing, Ph.D., long known as America's Crisis Doctor, is an individualized process of changing relationships and dynamics in order to stop the addiction cycle, move the organization out of crisis, and effectively address an individual’s addiction.
Alcoholism and drug addiction in the workplace are a major problem in America. More than one in ten employees has a drinking problem and almost a third of these drinkers also use illicit drugs. Contrary to conventional wisdom, most untreated addicts and alcoholics are actively employed. They hold jobs in offices, plants, hospitals and stores. They work in service industries, manufacturing, the trades, and professions crossing educational and economic levels. Alcoholics and addicts hold positions from hourly employees to top executives.
An employee with an alcohol or drug abuse problem is five times more likely to injure himself or herself, is 33% less productive, has twice as many unexcused work absences, and causes 40% of all industrial accidents. When an employee shows signs of alcoholism or addiction, organizations face a difficult dilemma: They know they should do something but rarely know where to begin. Early intervention, treatment, and continuing care are the best combination for successful recovery from addiction.
The AIR model for workplace intervention has two stated goals: 1) To move the organization out of the chaos and crisis generated by addiction; 2) To make help available to the addicted individual. By focusing our attention on the system surrounding the individual and working with them to make changes in their response to addiction, we can change the system independent of his or her decision to accept help.
AIR responds quickly to calls for help. Workplace crises are treated as emergencies because the emotional pain, suffering, and bottom line losses of the organization and people close to the addicted individual can be extreme. The faster an intervention program begins, the faster your organization will experience relief
All companies stand to benefit from early intervention. The decision to take action, while difficult, will improve the health of the entire workplace.