Can addiction to drugs or alcohol be considered a work-related injury?

Addiction to drugs or alcohol can be considered a work-related injury under specific circumstances, particularly when it is caused directly by work-related activities. This aligns with the understanding that workers' compensation laws are designed to address injuries or conditions that arise as a direct result of the work environment or job duties.

For example, if an individual develops an addiction as a direct consequence of their work, such as being exposed to a stress-inducing environment or being in a position where substance use feels necessary to cope with job-related factors, then it can be argued that the addiction is work-related. This reflects the complexities of workers' compensation where the connection between the job and the condition must be established in order for coverage to apply.

In contrast, not all cases where addiction occurs at the workplace or related events will qualify; for instance, if the addiction developed independently of work but subsequently manifests at work, it may not fall under the workers' compensation umbrella. Thus, the focus is on whether the addiction can be directly linked to work activities.