Dive Brief:

• After plateauing between 2008 and 2012, American workers' use of methamphetamine is rising, Quest Diagnostics reports.
• Since 2012, positive tests of methamphetamine rose 64% in the country's workforce, and 14% among federally regulated, safety-sensitive workers.
• According to a recent drug testing report from the company, cocaine and marijuana use are also up, "contributing to the highest positivity rate in 12 years."

Dive Insight:

Although the discussion on drug abuse in the workplace has rightfully been focused on the opioid epidemic, the rise in the use of methamphetamine and other drugs requires attention, too.

Aside from the obvious safety and wellness concerns, drug abuse is creating a major talent gap as some employers struggle to find candidates who can pass a drug test. According to a Princeton University study released in September, drug misuse has driven 20% of men out of the workforce.

In response, some employers have opted for some creative solutions, including finding sober candidates and training them or hiring parolees who are required to remain drug-free as a condition of their release.