An unexpected and concerning ‘benefit’ to working remotely

While there has been a blurring of lines between work and home lives for many employees who shifted to a remote or hybrid work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic, a new survey’s results raise a warning flag. The “Self-Medication Nation: The Numbing of America” survey, conducted by Ipsos Research with over 1,000 participants for Arizona-based mental health treatment center Sierra Tucson, found that 21% of U.S. employees admit they’ve used alcohol, marijuana or other recreational drugs during work hours while employed remotely this past year. A fifth of employees surveyed, 21%, also report witnessing a colleague under the influence while participating in a virtual meeting during the workday, while 22% of respondents indicate they themselves have participated in a virtual work call under the influence of marijuana, alcohol or other recreational drugs.