Which behavior might suggest an employee is experiencing impairment?

The behavior that most strongly suggests an employee is experiencing impairment is declining productivity and missed deadlines. When an employee is functioning below their usual standards, it can indicate that they are struggling with personal issues or potential substance use that affects their performance. Impairment often manifests as a noticeable change in work habits, such as not meeting deadlines or a downturn in the quality of work produced.

High productivity and efficiency, increased collaboration and teamwork, and improved communication skills typically reflect positive employee performance and engagement, which do not align with signs of impairment. Therefore, the contrast between expected, high-functioning behavior and observed declines serves as a key indicator that the employee may need help addressing underlying issues.