Did you know that research has shown that a whooping $81 billion is wasted annually on drug abuse in the workplace due to lost productivity? Actively employed members of the society often go unnoticed as addicts due to the simple fact that they’re leading a normal life at work and office.
Receiving addiction treatment while managing your job is a challenging task. Many hurdles will come your way but if you have convinced yourself that you need treatment then all of these hurdles are nothing. On this path to recovery, you don’t have to lose your job or compromise on the quality of your life. All you need to do is stay motivated and opt for an outpatient treatment facility like this one in Charleston.
Why Receive Treatment
Most people seem to underestimate the side effects of addiction. Here’s why you need to get treatment even if you have a full-time job!
- Your productivity levels are much lower as compared to others.
- You are prone to creating potentially dangerous situations.
- You will have more absences than others.
- You tend to be lazier and take longer meal breaks.
- Your performance reviews take a dip.
- You may also have a bad relationship with your co-workers due to your irritable nature.
- You have a hard time finishing your tasks at work and develop punctuality.
- In extreme situations, you may be frequently changing jobs because of your behavior.
Let’s move on and understand how you can receive addiction treatment while working!
1. How To Tell Your Employer Or A Loved One
You may fear being judged or even fear termination but talking to your boss is very important. You must be very honest and have an open mind while telling your boss. You should discuss the possibility of reducing your work hours while you are in recovery. Explain to her/him that the addiction is affecting your performance and how you will improve once you get proper treatment. A good starter would be to come prepared with your rehab plan. Here are some ways to approach a loved one.
2. Know That You Have Rights
Many people may be unaware that the law provides them protection, despite being an addict the law has placed mechanisms in place that make sure that you get the help that you need. The local family and medical leaves law mostly cover addicted individuals so that they can get proper treatment without losing their jobs. Some other acts also prevent the employer from firing you if you are getting treated. You may also be liable to receive disability benefits if you’re not getting paid while you are in treatment.
Look into the health insurance offered by your company too!
3. Don’t Fear Discrimination
Naturally, telling your co-workers and employer that you are an addict seeking treatment may open you up to a lot of judgment. But know that the law is there to protect you, the disability acts and anti-discrimination laws will come to your protection. Consequently, the taboo and stigma surrounding addiction recovery has considerably reduced since people have started becoming more aware of these issues. Moreover, if you chose not to tell your coworkers your boss is bound to keep this information confidential.
Don’t let the fear of judgment stop you from becoming a better version of yourself!
4. Explore The Types of Treatment
There are many treatment programs specifically designed for people who want to retain their jobs, look for those options so you don’t have to take a long break. Moreover, completely quitting work will also make your transition difficult.
Some common treatment options are:
Outpatient Treatment Programs
You need to put in 10-12 hours a week at a facility and get treatment, this may be a slow process, but it is effective and practical for the working class.
Inpatient Treatment Programs
An individual needs to stay at the facility for at least some months depending on the intensity of your treatment and how you respond to therapy. They are great for people who want to focus on recovery solely.
Professionals Treatment Program
Often addictions are accelerated by high-stress positions at work, this program is designed specifically to cater to such personnel. Such programs provide you an opportunity to maintain a work-life balance.
You may find other treatment options depending on your needs, but these are the most common ones.
5. Post-Recovery
Transitioning back into your work may be easy if you chose an outpatient recovery program or a professional’s treatment program. However, transitioning back after months at an inpatient recovery center you may have a hard time. Make sure you keep taking therapy and if a therapist is available at your office you schedule visits with him. Moreover, tell your co-workers about your journey so they can maintain a sober environment around you, gradually you will become comfortable.
If you want to seek help it will always be available to you one way or another. All you need to do is be persistent. Manage your stress and don’t be too hard on yourself after finishing treatment. Give yourself time to adjust with a breezy schedule and your transition in routine life will be easier.
