What is often the first symptom of impairment that supervisors should be aware of?

The first symptom of impairment that supervisors should be aware of is often sudden behavioral changes or performance drops. These signs can manifest in various ways, such as an employee becoming less communicative, displaying inconsistency in their quality of work, or exhibiting emotional changes like irritability or withdrawal. Such shifts in behavior or productivity may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention, whether it is substance abuse, mental health struggles, or personal problems affecting their work.

Recognizing these early indicators allows supervisors to address potential impairment proactively, giving them the opportunity to support the employee before the situation escalates. Focusing on behavioral changes is crucial because these changes are often more visible and impactful in the workplace than other factors, which might not clearly indicate impairment.