What can be an early sign of impairment in employees?

Frequent absences or lack of concentration can indeed signal early signs of impairment in employees. When an individual is experiencing impairment, whether due to substance use, mental health issues, or other personal challenges, it often leads to changes in their behavior and performance in the workplace. Frequent absences may indicate that the employee is struggling, as they could be facing difficulties managing their responsibilities or dealing with health concerns. Additionally, a lack of concentration may manifest as diminished productivity, difficulties in completing tasks, or challenges in following through on commitments. Employees who are impaired often find it harder to maintain their usual level of focus and engagement, which can noticeably affect their work.

In contrast, increased enthusiasm for team projects, enhanced problem-solving skills, and improved communication with peers are typically signs of positive engagement and satisfaction in the workplace. These behaviors are not commonly associated with impairment, as they reflect a person's ability to function well and work collaboratively rather than the challenges that come with impairment.