Akan: Increased concern over cocaine use in the workplace

Camilla Lynne Bakkeng

14.10.2024 - In recent years, there has been a rise in inquiries related to cocaine use reported to Akan Competence Center's guidance service. This increase has continued into the first half of 2024.

The inquiries predominantly come from managers and HR departments, and most of them involve specific concerns about an employee's cocaine use, rather than general questions about the drug.

Moreover, we are now seeing more inquiries about cocaine than cannabis.

"Traditionally, there have always been more inquiries about cannabis than cocaine when it comes to illegal drug use," says Camilla Lynne Bakkeng, Head of Professional and Communications at the Akan Competence Center.

Workplaces tend to reflect societal trends, and population surveys indicate that cocaine use has increased in recent years, especially among young men.

“It is therefore not surprising that we are seeing an increase. What’s encouraging is that most people who contact us do so because they want to help and retain the employee,” says Lynne Bakkeng.

The proportion of inquiries about cocaine is still low compared to those about problematic alcohol use. However, it is worth noting that cocaine use is often linked to risky alcohol consumption.

“If we can prevent risky alcohol use, it’s likely that we can also help prevent the use of illegal drugs,” concludes Camilla Lynne Bakkeng.

Source: www.akan.no