Answering a Call to Action on American Workplace and Community Opioid Concerns. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harnett, Peter; Hindman, John; Duenas, Melissa; Coogan, Michael; Misicko, Heather
• Is Part Of: New solutions. Volume 31:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 229
• Page End: 238
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: opioid use disorder -- substance use disorder -- mental health wellness -- employee assistance program -- total worker health; Environmental health -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Government policy -- United States -- Periodicals; Industrial hygiene -- Periodicals; Industrial hygiene -- Government policy -- United States -- Periodicals; 613.62
• DOI: 10.1177/10482911211037573
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1048-2911

Abstract

Leidos, Inc. is a large government science and technology company. When a Leidos employee lost his son to an opioid overdose, he wrote an impassioned email to the CEO, asking him to take action related to the growing societal problem of opioid use disorders. The CEO understood and accepted this important call to action. Leidos' subsequent efforts included supporting employees and families, as well as community outreach, eventually broadening to include mental health and well-being. This paper outlines the company's efforts to combat opioid use disorders, understanding that they sit within a larger total worker health umbrella inclusive of mental health and well-being. The hope is that this ongoing journey and its exemplars are helpful for other organizations seeking to make an impact for their employees and society.