Close up of a teenage girl looks addicted while counting drugs on the table
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: Room For Improvement
Recent Gallup data found that at the end of 2025 conditions for workers were worse than at any point in the past three years. Gallup, tracking life evaluation of the U.S. workforce, stated that more workers reported struggling in their lives (49%) than thriving (46%).
At the end of the work day, those interviewed reported using alcohol, cannabis, and unprescribed drugs like Xanax for anxiety and Klonopin for depression. Not only are they using these powerful substances after work, but 52% use them while working! The survey also demonstrated that the burnout attributed to the stress associated with having to work harder for same or less pay has also impeded their productivity. The workers also fear that artificial intelligence may take over their jobs.
Furthermore, Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, more than half (51%) use THC, the mind-altering “high” associated with marijuana use, during the day. A Drug Rehab USA survey released in March yielded that about 30% confessed that they used substances before work. What happened to joy and pride from one’s work?
Source: New study examines worker drug use, burnout by Jessica Guynn, USA TODAY, 5/17/26.
When Your Child Is Gay: What You Need To Know
For more detailed advice, see book, co-authored with a mother of a gay son and a psychiatrist, Jonathan L. Tobkes, M.D.
