About 80 percent of people with alcohol problems work, yet fewer than 25 percent of those who need treatment get it. Untreated alcohol problems cost employers in several ways: They result in greater healthcare expenses for injuries and illnesses, higher absenteeism, lower productivity, and more workers' compensation and disability claims.

Although short-term counseling may help some problem drinkers, employees with alcoholism require formal treatment. Research has shown that alcoholism treatment that is tailored to an individual's needs can be cost-effective for employers. Treatment substantially reduces drinking among people with alcoholism, and 40 to 60 percent of those treated for addiction to alcohol and/or other drugs remain abstinent after a year. By providing comprehensive health benefits that cover treatment for alcohol use disorders, employers can reduce their healthcare and other personnel costs as well as contribute to employees' well-being and productivity.