Addictions causing severe distractions at the work place

Michael Farrugia discusses addictions at work place • Video Ray Attard

“Alcohol, drugs and gambling, are all addictions that poorly affect work performance. These are all addictions we are aware of, but we can add mobile, SMS, e-mail and blog addictions to the list,” Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia said. 

Addressing a seminar about addictions and their effects on the work place, organised by Sedqa, Farrugia spoke about new forms of addiction that need to be treated in much the same way as other more traditional addictions.

The minister focused on the importance of prevention of such addictions, but he also stressed the necessity for employers and society at large to give addicts a second chance.

Sedqa launched the Substance Abuse Free Employees Programme (SAFE), in 1996, with a total of 120 entities taking part in the last two years. The programme is working towards creating a greater awareness on employers’ parts on the plight of addicts and towards expanding its work in the field.

“Addicts need to have an incentive to actually take the necessary steps to be cured. Having a welcoming environment to return to would ensure addicts would look for help more readily,” Farrugia said.