The Benefits of Hiring and Retaining Employees in Recovery: A Win-Win Approach

Effective Workplace Policies & Practices Can Help Save Money & Save Lives!

• Individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) are a largely untapped economic resource.
  • As many as 5.5 million U.S. adults living with SUD are currently unemployed. ¹
• Evidence-based workplace policies are worth it!
  • Businesses that invest in providing access to substance use treatment for employees can see as high as a 13 to 1 return on their investment. ²
  • Employees who receive treatment and enter recovery from SUD showed 36% decreases in absenteeism and a 13% decrease in work turnover, all equating to cost savings for the employer. ²
  • Business sponsored and monitored treatment produces better recovery results than treatment sought at the request of friends or family. ²
• Businesses can be part of the solution. Employment opportunities help improve people’s lives and improve the community.
  • The benefits of work for individuals with substance use disorders include lower rates of recurrence, higher rates of abstinence, less criminal activity, fewer parole violations, improvements in quality of life, and more successful transition from long-term residential treatment back to the community. ^3,4,5,6
• Policies that retain workers, save money.
  • The benefits of work for individuals with substance use disorders include lower rates of recurrence, higher rates of abstinence, less criminal activity, fewer parole violations, improvements in quality of life, and more successful transition from long-term residential treatment back to the community. ^3,4,5,6
• Fair Chance employment pays off.
  • Businesses hiring individuals with substance use and criminal backgrounds may be eligible as a fair chance employer for financial incentives through programs such as the Federal Bonding Program and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.

Business Resources

Substance Use is a National Crisis

• Over the past year overdoses have claimed the lives of over 100,000 Americans. ⁷
  • An almost 30% increase from the year before
  • Opioids were responsible for around 75% of the overdose deaths
  • Overdose deaths from methamphetamines and cocaine are also on the rise
• Around 40.3 million U.S. adults are living with SUD
• Drug use and overdose deaths in the U.S. have been identified as an “epidemic,” a “crisis,” and a “public health emergency.”
• The annual costs associated with SUD, including healthcare and employment, exceed $440 billion. ⁸
  • Much of this burden falls on businesses (estimates for the annual cost of lost productivity in the workplace are as high as $200 billion).

What About in Ohio?

• Unintentional drug poisoning is the leading cause of injury death in Ohio, surpassing motor vehicle crashes. ⁹
• More than 4,250 Ohioans died from overdose over the past year. ¹⁰
  • Ohio has the fourth-highest opioid overdose rate in the U.S.
  • More than twice the national average.
• Around 9% of Ohioans struggle with substance use and addiction issues. ¹¹
• Drug-related crimes constitute around one-quarter of all felonies resulting in prison sentences in Ohio. ¹²
  • Marijuana possession exceeded incidents for all other drugs combined.
  • Drug convictions exclude many Ohioans from jobs that could help them in their recovery journey.
  • Around 1 in 4 Ohio jobs is blocked or restricted for those with a conviction.

How Does Substance Use Impact the Workplace?

• Nationally, around 8.6% of working adults have SUD. That means the likelihood is high that you have a substantial number of individuals in your own workforce either currently dealing with or with a history of SUD. ²
  • The number of employed Americans using illicit substances (15.4 million) is greater than those not in the workplace (7 million). ¹
  • A national survey on drug use found as many as one in five survey respondents reported they have used marijuana recreationally at work during work hours. ²
• Estimates for the annual cost of lost productivity in the workplace are as high as $200 billion. ¹³
  • The negative impact includes lost productivity, workplace accidents and injuries, absenteeism, low morale, and increased illnesses.
  • The estimated annual cost of untreated SUD in the workplace can range from $2,600 to $13,000 per employee.

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). Results from the 2013 national survey on drug use and health: Summary of national findings. NSDUH Series H-48, HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4863. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
2. National Safety Council. (2020). Drugs at work: What employers need to know. National Safety Council. https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/safety-topics/drugs-at-work
3. Dunigan, R., Acevedo, A., Campbell, K., Garnick, D. W., Horgan, C. M., Huber, A., … Ritter, G. A. (2014). Engagement in outpatient substance abuse treatment and employment outcomes. Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-013-9334-2
4. Kerrigan, A. J., Kaough, J. E., Wilson, B. L., Wilson, J. V., & Bostick, R. (2004). Vocational rehabilitation of participants with severe substance use disorders in a VA veterans industries program. Substance Use & Misuse, 39(14), 2513–2523.
https://doi.org/10.1081/LSUM-200034695
5. Roessler, R. T., & Rumrill, P. (1998). Reducing workplace barriers to enhance job satisfaction: An important post-employment service for employees with chronic illnesses. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 10(3), 219-29.
6. Sprong, M. E., Melvin, A., Dallas, B., & Koch, D. S. (2014). Substance abuse and vocational rehabilitation: A survey of policies & procedures. Journal of Rehabilitation Journal of Rehabilitation, 80(4), 4–9.
7. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Drug Overdose Deaths in the U.S. Top 100,000 Annually. Retrieved from
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2021/20211117.htm
8. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Trends and statistics. Accessed from https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics#supplemental-references-for-economic-costs
9. Ohio Department of Health. (2022). Drug overdose. Accessed from https://odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/violence-injury-prevention-program/drug-overdose/
10. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). Opioid Summaries by State. Accessed from https://nida.nih.gov/drug-topics/opioids/opioid-summaries-by-state
11. Harm Reduction Ohio. (2021). Why does Ohio rank No. 31 in drug use but No. 2 in overdose death? https://www.harmreductionohio.org/why-does-ohio-rank-no-31-in-drug-use-but-no-2-in-overdose-death/
12. Shields, M. (2018). Wasted assets: The cost of excluding Ohioans with a record from work. Policy Matters Ohio. Accessed from https://www.policymattersohio.org/research-policy/fair-economy/work-wages/wasted-assets-the-cost-of-excluding-ohioans-with-a-record-from-work
13. Society for Human Resource Management. SHRM. 2020. Employing and managing people with addictions. Society for Human Resource Management: Better workplaces, better world. https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/tools-and- samples/toolkits/pages/personswithaddictions.aspx

Coleman’s Employment Services are available in the following counties:

Allen,  Auglaize,  Belmont,  Hardin,  Harrison,  Jefferson,  Mahoning,  Monroe,  Portage,  Stark,  Summit,  Trumbull,  Wayne

A crisis occurs when a stressful life event overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope effectively in the face of a perceived challenge or threat.

Crises occur at the spur of the moment and in a variety of settings as trauma can arise quickly. Crises are temporary, although the effects may become long lasting. See our 24/7 Crisis Hotline & Walk-in Services.

Crisis intervention is the emergency and temporary care given to an individual who, because of unusual stress in life, is unable to function or cope as he or she normally would.

Our goal at Coleman is to interrupt the downward spiral of negative thinking and to increase stabilization.

Crisis assessment and crisis intervention strategies focus on the client’s immediate situation including factors such as safety and immediate needs.

In addition to our Walk-in Clinic Services, Coleman offers 24/7 Crisis Support (including an Opiate Hotline and National Suicide Lifeline) and a Mobile Response Program for children, teens and adults in distress. 

Mobile Response in Stark County

Stark County Mobile Response Hotline

330-452-6000

A crisis can happen any time, anywhere. Coleman Health Services’ Mobile Response

Adult & Youth programs rapidly deploy culturally-competent, trauma-informed on-site crisis support using behavioral health interventions that are sensitive to the age-specific youth and adults.

The Mobile Response Team is comprised of professionals trained in crisis intervention, information and referral. The team provides mobile behavioral health services to individuals in the home, at school, workplace and in various other community settings.

When can I call? When can the Mobile Response Team be deployed?

Anytime. Available 24 hours every day, including weekends and holidays. 

Who can call the Mobile Response hotline? 

Anyone. 

Co-workers, friends, family members, caregivers, school staff and professionals can call for the Mobile Response Team based on their need of urgent intervention. All situations are considered valid.

When should I call 9-1-1 instead? 

If someone is experiencing the following, immediately call 9-1-1:

• Overdose
• Other Medical Emergencies
• Suicide Attempt / Serious Self-Harm in Progress
• Violence / Threats of Violence / Possession of a Weapon

Opiate Hotline

Opiate Hotline 

330-545-HELP (4357)

Need opiate specific support? Dial the hotline above to receive:

• Immediate access, engagement, triage, screening and support
• Service referral, navigation and linkage
• Education on treatment options for opiate addiction
• All calls are confidential and are accepted anytime, day or night

Remember, an overdose is a medical emergency. Dial 9-1-1 immediately and begin first aid.

More than 300 people in Stark County have overdosed from opioids, including heroin, since 2012 according to the Stark County Coroner’s office. In addition, Ohio experienced the second highest number of drug overdose deaths nationwide in 2014, a number that is soaring according to a federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report.

National Suicide Lifeline

National Suicide Lifeline

1-800-273-8255

The National Suicide Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress as well as prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

Coleman’s Crisis Intervention and Stabilization is available in the following counties:

Allen,  Auglaize,  Hardin,  Jefferson,  Mahoning,  Portage,  Stark,  Summit,  Trumbull

Jobs for People with Disabilities

At Coleman, we understand that the impact of mental health challenges goes beyond just the medical symptoms. It can also affect your ability to get or keep a job. Our goal is to help you regain your sense of stability and independence by providing practical, hands-on job skills and solid support in preparing you for a career match that’s right for you. Coleman Employment Specialists will also work with you to achieve a work-life balance that addresses job stressors and supports your mental health needs.

Helping Individuals with Disabilities Find Jobs

Many of our clients hope to become more independent in our community. We help them achieve their dreams by supporting the job training and employment services that can make it all possible.

No matter the challenge, we’re here to help.

• Lack of a high school diploma
• Limited or no work experience
• Misdemeanors or felonies
• Other barriers

Our mission is to help change the destiny of our youth and adults by helping find meaningful employment. And our program works to connect our adults and youth clients with the right positions among our local employers.

At Coleman, our Employment Services Program works with our clients right where they’re at in their own lives – to address their immediate issues and concerns. Then, we tailor a personalized action plan, with achievable goals. This is an approach that has helped our clients overcome the impact of illness and disability and has worked to support many successful careers.

How We Help

Coleman Employment Specialists will work with you to develop a personalized plan to help you secure the right job – one you can be proud of. We will work with you to create your resume, complete applications and prepare for interviews. Our services also include helping you find job opportunities that match your skills and interests.

• Supporting the training, skills, and choices necessary for success on the job
• Engaging employers to offer gainful employment
• Matching the right person to the right job – benefiting job seekers and employers alike

Employment & Recovery Go Hand-in-Hand

At Coleman, we also understand that working is a critical part of ongoing recovery and sense of purpose. You want to contribute, be productive and enjoy employment. But that’s not always easy to do alone. That’s why Coleman Employment Specialists work with any client who wants to work! We help people become employed and stay employed.

Coleman Employment Services can offer purpose and help improve our clients’ quality of life by helping them build the skills necessary to achieve and sustain successful and competitive employment. Coleman Employment Services offers customized long-term job retention support to our clients.

All age ranges are welcome — from young adults to senior citizens. Coleman Employment Services accepts referrals from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities and other referring partners. We strongly encourage self-referrals in all Coleman counties.

Explore Our Video Gallery to Learn More About Coleman Employment Services

How can Coleman help ME find a job?

Coleman’s Employment Services are available in the following counties:

Allen,  Auglaize,  Hardin,  Jefferson,  Mahoning,  Portage,  Stark,  Summit,  Trumbull

What is evaluation and diagnostic assessment?

This process consists of gathering information to assess an individual’s behavioral health needs. This helps clinicians determine the best service mix of mental health, addiction, and/or employment and vocational rehabilitation services to assist in recovery.

A diagnostic assessment is a clinical evaluation provided by a licensed professional in order to gather information to determine appropriate treatment based on the initial problem, current mental status and the diagnostic impression. The clinician will share the results of the diagnostic assessment with you in order to begin treatment planning.

Common referrals for diagnostic assessment include:

• Depression treatment
• Grief counseling
• Substance abuse treatment
• Post-traumatic stress treatment
• Mental health counseling
• Anger management counseling
• Anxiety treatment
• Suicidal thoughts
• Child counseling

How does Coleman evaluate and diagnose?

To receive a diagnostic assessment at Coleman, please bring photo identification and insurance card. Sliding fee options apply to those without insurance. Arrive a half-hour prior to your scheduled appointment in order to complete health questionnaire and financial intake.

When seeking a diagnostic assessment at Coleman Behavioral Health, expect to discuss the following with the clinician:

• Personal history
• Initial symptoms
• Diagnostic impression and treatment recommendations
• Use of alcohol and/or drugs
• Home environment/relationships with family and peers
• Current mental status
• Leisure and recreational activities
• Childhood history
• Military history
• Financial status
• Usual social and peep group activities
• Family circumstances (including custody issues)
• Vocational/educational assessment
• Legal assessment
• Nutritional and health status
• Spirituality
• Concerns of safety of self or others
• Strengths

Coleman’s Evaluation and Diagnostic Services are available in the following counties:

Allen,  Auglaize,  Hardin,  Jefferson,  Mahoning,  Portage,  Stark,  Summit,  Trumbull

Psychiatry and Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents & Children

Everyone comes to Coleman with different life experiences and challenges that can impact our mental health and wellness. We understand that it takes courage to ask for help. Perhaps you’re going through an especially rough patch. Maybe you’ve been struggling with substance use or dealing with a mental health disorder that has been affecting your ability to work and the quality of your relationships. People of all backgrounds and ages reach out to Coleman for different reasons:

• Treatment for attention disorders
• Treatment for depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Treatment for anxiety
• Treatment for bipolar disorder
• Treatment for mood disorders
• Treatment for personality disorders
• Treatment for psychotic disorders
• Treatment for schizophrenia

You’ve come to the right place. At Coleman, you’ll find a comprehensive range of psychiatric and counseling services – personalized to address your unique concerns. Coleman Psychiatric Services provides assessments of individuals with psychiatric and emotional difficulties. At Coleman Health Services, the psychiatric team consists of psychiatric-trained physicians, Advance Practice Nurses (APN), Physician Assistants (PA), pharmacists, nurses and medical assistants.  This specialized team provides quality psychiatric assessment and evaluation to determine the most effective treatment for all persons with mental illness, including substance use disorders. 

Psychiatric assessment

We focus on understanding your situation.

When you turn to Coleman for help, you’ll find an expert team of psychiatric providers, licensed counselors and services that meet national accreditation standards. You’ll get connected with our expert team of psychiatrists and advanced practice nurses (APNs) — professionals who share our agency-wide passion for recovery. The psychiatric team may utilize medication or recommend other treatments,  according to the best standards of practice,  in order to improve functioning through the reduction of mental health disorder symptoms. The Coleman psychiatric services team will take the time to listen to how you’re feeling, help you understand what you’re going through, and explain your personalized treatment plan – to you and your family.

Our psychiatric services team may perform a psychiatric/mental health examination – to give us insight on issues that may be troubling you. Your Coleman Care Team may also consider assessment data from behavioral health professionals, professionals from other disciplines, from your family and other important people in your circle.

How Psychiatry Aids Counseling + Therapy

Chronic and acute mental health issues can be debilitating. At Coleman, our psychiatry staff are trained to differentiate mental health problems from other possible underlying conditions that could present with psychiatric symptoms. Our Psychiatric team will work with our other specialized teams, including counseling and case management, to develop a personalized plan of care that supports your road to recovery.

Psychiatry for Adults

Mental illness may be a result of biological or environmental factors. Coleman works with adults from all walks of life to help heal and find freedom. We’re here to help you put yourself first, get the help you need and make positive changes in your life.

Psychiatry for Adolescents & Teens

Good mental health is vital for healthy teenage development, strong relationships and resilience. Teen years are important for kids to assert their individuality and practice independence. While it’s normal for teens to experience moodiness, poor motivation and trouble sleeping, these issues can escalate to full-blown depression, aggression, or self-harm. We’re here to help, with a wide range of support options for teenagers with mental health problems and for their families.

Psychiatry for Children

A child’s healthy emotional, behavioral and social wellbeing is crucial to their overall development. Unfortunately, many children are confronted with complex social and environmental issues that can jeopardize their healthy development. We offer trauma-informed interventions, evidence-based support programs and a wide array of services aimed at helping kids heal and thrive.

We support our clients to thrive.

Every person gets what they need — the high-quality, compassionate, coordinated, person-centered care they deserve. Our experienced and licensed staff work with you to address their specific needs through a wide range of behavioral and mental health services and treatment options. We practice evidence-based, research-proven treatment methods and prescribe supportive medications that can support your recovery and help you feel better, faster. Access complete range of of psychological and psychiatric services — all under one roof:

• Psychiatric Services
• Case Management
• Outpatient Psychotherapy
• Individual & Group Counseling
• Psychosocial Rehabilitation
• Substance Use Disorders (SUD) Treatment
• Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment (AoD)
• Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)

Coleman mental health professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to initiate mental health treatment and drug and alcohol treatment.

Coleman’s Psychiatry is available in the following counties:

Allen,  Auglaize,  Hardin,  Jefferson,  Mahoning,  Portage,  Stark,  Summit,  Trumbull