Throughout history people have invented new ways to get high – as an escape from the stress of daily life and real problems that need to be faced.
Today is no exception.
Perspectives Ltd’s Employee Assistance program (EAP) Counselors regularly speak with employees from every walk of life, facing every kind of challenge. Those conversations are confidential, between patient and counselor, but we do look for trends affecting groups of people.
Recently, we’ve begun to see use of a new substance in Northwest Indiana. And, technically, it’s legal – although it can still dampen your workforce productivity and escalate legal concerns if your employees have accidents on the job while under the influence.
As far as we understand, the substance is made in China and is a mix of spices and herbs that is sprayed with a synthetic compound similar to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC,) more commonly known as Marijuana.
The product is sold as incense, but people are smoking it to get high. It comes in one gram packages and is sold for $10-$20, depending on its strength. Police have been arresting users for public intoxication, but cannot arrest for them for possession.
So what does that mean for HR and business leaders?
The most important thing you can do is be observant about your workforce. If you’re in Northern Illinois, Northern Indiana or another area of the country where this substance is gaining in popularity, keep an eye out for employees that are exhibiting a change in behavior. If you have instances of employees who appear intoxicated yet are coming up negative on drug tests and alcohol tests, this may be the reason.
And, be aware of the indirect consequences of this substance. Employees with teenagers may be impacted by this at home and that can affect their work performance.
Finally, be alert if you hear employees or family members talking about it. The substance goes by several names, including:
- Black Magic
- Black Mamba
- Gonjah
- K2
- Mr. Dutchy
- Mr. Smiley
- P.E.P. Pourri
- Proze Smoke
- Warlock
Workforces with younger populations and parents with teens are probably at the greatest risk.
If you need help, or you think you have employees that need help themselves or for their family, contact your EAP. We can assess the situation and provide counsel to the people in need – whether that means individual employees, or helping you address the challenge from a human resource perspective.
We’re well versed in helping people and organizations manage substance abuse issues. But we need you to make that first call.
Rick Kronberg, Director of Clinical Services at Perspectives Ltd, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 25 years experience leading professional work teams, directing strategic planning and growth and managing operations of behavioral health and human capital organizations.
Tags: black majic, black mamba, EAP, Employee Assistance Program, gonjah, k2, marijuana, Mr. Dutchy, Mr. Smiley, P.E.P. Pourri, parents with teenagers, Perspectives Ltd, Proze Smoke, Rick Kronberg, substance abuse, Warlock, workplace
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