Molloy DSG Professional Digest

Identifying substance abuse in leadership roles, specifically cocaine and alcohol use, requires careful observation, as those in high-ranking positions often develop sophisticated ways to hide their habits. Both substances impair judgment, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships, but their signs can differ. Cocaine’s stimulating effects often cause bursts of hyperactivity, risk-taking behavior, and mood swings, while alcohol, a depressant, tends to impair coordination and cause emotional instability. When combined, the result can be even more unpredictable, exacerbating reckless behavior and increasing the risks for the organization.

A leader using cocaine may exhibit signs such as rapid speech, impulsive decisions, and unusually high energy levels, followed by crashes marked by irritability, paranoia, or exhaustion. Physical symptoms like dilated pupils, frequent sniffing, nosebleeds, and sweating are also red flags. In contrast, alcohol misuse tends to be more insidious. A leader struggling with alcohol may demonstrate erratic attendance patterns, such as frequent late arrivals or absences, and show signs of intoxication, like slurred speech, unsteady movements, or the odor of alcohol. Over time, they may attempt to hide their drinking by avoiding face-to-face meetings, increasingly working remotely, or finding excuses to leave early.

Both cocaine and alcohol abuse can result in declining job performance. An executive who was once a meticulous planner may start missing deadlines, overlook critical decisions, or make careless financial errors. Impulsiveness driven by substance abuse can lead to poor strategic choices, jeopardizing the business’s long-term stability. The impact of substance abuse also extends to workplace dynamics, as substance-affected leaders may foster a toxic environment characterized by erratic behavior, mood swings, or aggression. Team members may feel disrespected, confused by shifting priorities, or pressured to tolerate inappropriate conduct.

Leaders struggling with substance abuse often isolate themselves socially, becoming withdrawn or overly defensive when confronted. In the case of alcohol, binge drinking or frequent "happy hours" may initially seem harmless, but over time, excessive consumption impairs emotional regulation and clouds judgment. Alcohol misuse can also amplify interpersonal conflicts and lead to inappropriate interactions with colleagues or clients, damaging professional relationships and the company’s reputation.

The consequences of unchecked substance abuse at the leadership level are far-reaching. Aside from personal health risks, such as cardiovascular issues from cocaine or liver damage from alcohol, the financial impact on the company can be devastating. Poor decision-making can lead to legal liabilities, lost clients, or failed projects, while reputational damage caused by inappropriate behavior can erode trust among employees, investors, and stakeholders. In severe cases, substance abuse can trigger leadership changes, forcing boards to intervene to protect the company from further harm.

Organizations must remain vigilant for signs of substance abuse in leadership and create an environment that encourages early intervention. Implementing clear policies around substance use, offering employee assistance programs, and providing access to mental health resources are essential steps. Regular performance evaluations, anonymous reporting mechanisms, and a culture that prioritizes accountability over secrecy can also help identify issues before they escalate.