how to keep a job in rehab

Through Employment Assistance Programs and referrals, individuals can keep their job while receiving substance abuse treatment. However, some rehab programs require the individuals to take a leave of absence to focus on recovery. The majority of substance-addicted individuals are active members of the United States workforce.

Full Answer

Can I keep my job if I’m in rehab?

Sep 11, 2020 · You may be wondering how to go to rehab and keep you r job. It can be a precarious position to find yourself in. Not everyone has the luxury of taking weeks off to begin treatment, so finding a flexible treatment program and maintaining communication with your employer is important. Getting healthy is, of course, your number one priority. But being left in a …

Can I keep my job while receiving substance abuse treatment?

Continue with aftercare/support. Attend AA/NA or other recovery support groups. Comply with any “Return-to-Work” agreement. Lasting Recovery in San Diego offers Outpatient substance abuse treatment that allows people to get better while still working and living at home. If you need help, make the call TODAY.

Can my employer fire me for going to rehab?

Nov 16, 2021 · Although uncommon, it is possible to go to rehab and keep your job. Some existing laws and acts prevent employers from firing employees seeking treatment. Communication with your employer and learning how to keep your job are two critical factors to consider before heading for treatment. Preparing to Go to Rehab When You Have a Job

Do you have to take a leave of absence for rehab?

Sep 14, 2016 · Complete your recommended treatment plan – do not leave residential rehab early. Continue with ongoing aftercare – outpatient drug rehab, drug tests, etc. Attend 12-Step fellowship meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Comply with any “Return-to-Work” agreement that your employer may have prepared.

How can I work while in recovery?

Here are some tips to help you find balance once you return to work.Don't Immediately Aim to Become an Over-Achiever. ... Show Up Early. ... Check in with Your Recovery Needs. ... Practice Good Time Management. ... Take Care of Yourself, Inside and Out.Aug 19, 2019

What is a good job for a recovering drug addict?

Recovery-Related Jobs Addiction counselors, peer specialists, recovery coaching, and social work are all good options. If you want to do less hands-on work with people in treatment, but still be involved in the field, you may still be able to find other employment at a drug rehab.Jul 21, 2020

Does my job have to let me go to rehab?

You can be fired for going to rehab if you don't follow the formal FMLA process for requesting a leave of absence. If you enter a treatment facility first, then tell your employer afterward, you're not protected under this law.May 22, 2017

What is the average time spent in rehab?

Many treatment facilities typically offer patients short-term stays between 28 to 30 days. However, certain residential facilities may also offer extended stays for an additional fee, provided the patient is showing positive signs of recovery.Feb 2, 2022

What is a get well job?

A Get Well Job is any job that does not cause undue pressure and bring too many intellectual or emotional demands, compared to the profession you were in prior to starting recovery.

Should I tell my boss IM in recovery?

Why Should You Tell Your Employer You're in Recovery? It's not always important to disclose your history of addiction to an employer. If you're strong in recovery and your job doesn't interfere with your success in any way, you probably don't need to mention it.Oct 13, 2021

What is a last chance agreement?

Last Chance Agreements (LCA) are agree- ments between an employer and an employee and/or a union that gives the employee who has committed serious mis- conduct one last chance to keep the employee's job.

Can you get someone fired?

If you feel like you need to get someone fired, schedule a meeting with your manager or supervisor. If you can, bring along written evidence of the other person's wrongdoings, as well as statements from any other coworkers who might feel the same way.

What rehab has the highest success rate?

Roughly 80 percent of patients report benefiting from improved quality of life and health after completing drug and alcohol rehab. Florida has the highest success rates of drug rehab compared to all other states.May 29, 2019

How long does rehab last after stroke?

The rate of recovery is generally greatest in the weeks and months after a stroke. However, there is evidence that performance can improve even 12 to 18 months after a stroke.

What happens if you go back to work for substance abuse?

When you go back to work, bear in mind that if your employer discriminates against you because of your condition, that is against the law.

Why do I have to hold down my job?

But foregoing treatment isn’t the answer to protecting your job or your health. While having to hold down a job is a common excuse for not getting treatment for an addiction or mental health problem, the excuse is also, tragically, a mistaken one. That’s because there are legal protections in place that will protect your job while you get ...

What are the laws to protect your job?

The following laws are worth being familiar with if you’re thinking about going to rehab. Family Medical Leave of Absence Act (FMLA) – Under the terms of the FMLA law, a substance use disorder and/or other mental illness qualifies as a “serious health condition” for which some U.S.

What are the worries about job security?

Related to worries about job security are concerns about what happens in a job after treatment. Many people wonder what returning to work will feel like, in terms of how they will be received by their boss and colleagues and what “reintegration” will be like. Be assured that there is life after rehab, including in the career that you took time away from and the work relationships you put on hold.

Can an employer fire you for being absentee?

Because your employment is likely “at will,” meaning you are employed by your own free will, an employer can fire you if they detect absenteeism or negligence on the job. This outcome becomes more likely the longer you let a mental health problem go untreated, leaving you vulnerable to absenteeism and negligence on the job.

Does the ADA protect you from drug abuse?

The ADA may not protect your job, however, if you are currently using illicit drugs or drinking while at work, or if your drug or alcohol problem is currently ...

Is it ok to step away from work to get treatment?

No job—no matter how important—should stand between you and the treatment you need to get better. In some cases, a decision to step away from work in order to get treatment may in fact mean the difference between life and death. Call our counselors today to get the answers you need.

Why do I leave my job?

Absences because of substance abuse. Punctuality problems. Inability to keep a job/frequently changing companies. A prolonged pattern of such behaviors can ruin your work reputation and lead to your termination. Employers are protected by federal law that allows them to create a drug-free workplace.

How do I know if I'm being abused in the workplace?

Signs that substance abuse may be affecting your job performance include: Performance issues.

What are the added pressures of high stress occupations?

The added pressures of high-stress occupations can contribute to the development and progression of a substance addiction. For professionals with demanding or high-stress positions, there are treatment programs tailored to their needs. Professional programs include general treatment and specialty treatment groups that address the unique challenges that may contribute to substance abuse issues. Facilities that offer such programs typically work with professionals to provide a plan that suits their mental and physical health needs as well as their job-related obligations.

How many hours can you work to qualify for FMLA?

For an employee to be eligible for FML, he or she must have worked at least 1,250 hours and held employment at the company for a year or more.

How many days a week is outpatient treatment?

Many outpatient programs include one to three days a week of clinical treatment, while allotting the additional days and time for working.

What is inpatient treatment?

Inpatient treatment programs require individuals to take a leave of absence from work to focus solely on recovery; however, many inpatient programs will work with people to accommodate their work-related needs. Quality inpatient programs aim to help patients acclimate to treatment however possible, such as providing extra access to computers or additional time for job-related phone calls.

Do you have to take leave of absence to go to rehab?

However, some rehab programs require the individuals to take a leave of absence to focus on recovery. The majority of substance-addicted individuals are active members of the United States workforce. Substance abuse in the workplace can lead to unparalleled negative consequences for your reputation, career and safety.

What to remember after treatment?

One helpful thing to remember on your journey is that life goes on after treatment. You have a lot to look forward to, and this includes a smooth transition returning to work. In fact, you will likely return to your job stronger and more efficient than ever. As DrugAbuse.gov puts it,

What is FMLA for addiction?

FMLA provides job-secured leave for medical reasons while allowing you to keep your original health coverage. This is a protection available to most employees and covers a wide range of family and health issues. For addicts, this act allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. During this time, you can seek professional help and return to work with no changes to your pay or position.

How long does it take to get treatment for long term addiction?

Residential treatment involves a multi-week stay at a facility, where you live, work, and play in a structured environment. Many of these programs consider 90 days as the minimum amount of time needed to address long-term addiction issues.

Should I go to rehab or keep my job?

Now that you understand how to go to rehab and keep your job, it is a good idea to consider professional treatment. The sooner you get help for your addiction, the better the outcome.

Overview

How to Keep Your Job Before, During and After Rehab. In an Employer Brief the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that 76 percent of people with substance abuse problems are employed.

Before Rehab

Understand your addiction and how it affects your job performance. As this article from HelpGuide.org explains, there are certain signs and symptoms of drug abuse that indicate it’s time to seek help.

During Rehab

Ask boss for confidentiality. In its “Are You In Recovery from Alcohol or Drug Problems? Know Your Rights” SAMHSA explains that employers must maintain confidentiality regarding any information they receive about your addiction or treatment.

After Rehab

Know your rights when you return to work. In its “Are You In Recovery from Alcohol or Drug Problems? Know Your Rights” SAMHSA explains the on-the-job rights employees have.

How Can Career Concerns Hamper Drug Treatment?

One of the biggest worries for many addicts/alcoholics is the fear of what might happen to their career if they admit to having a problem.

Getting Help AND Protecting Your Job

If you are battling addiction, you CAN get the professional help you need while keeping your career safe.

Preparing to Go to Rehab When You Have a Job

Before you go to rehab, it is vital to let your company know why you are taking a leave of absence. You will probably not be required to go too much into details, but it’s better if they know in advance and avoid any unnecessary hassles.

Can You Get Fired for Getting Treatment?

From a legal point of view, you should not get fired from seeking treatment for substance abuse diseases.

Rehab Options While Working

Outpatient rehab is more suited for professionals who can’t afford to miss work or have a more flexible approach to their treatment. Outpatient consists of patients visiting treatment centers 2-3 times a week for a few hours. The idea is that their treatment does not disrupt their working routine.

How to recover from a traumatic brain injury?

Take the following steps to ensure a smooth transition into the recovery process with regard to work: 1 Be honest and up-front with your employer so you can get the maximum amount of help available from a legal standpoint. 2 Speak to your coworkers so they know you’re taking time off, but you’re under no obligation to tell them why. 3 Make sure you’re diligent about completing any projects you’re responsible for and organizing the appropriate cover for while you’re away.

Is outpatient rehab more accessible than inpatient rehab?

Outpatient rehab programs are often more accessible than inpatient rehab, with many centers providing evening and weekend classes to fit around your schedule. However, with an intensive outpatient program or partial hospitalization, you may still need to take some time off from work. Whichever type of program you opt for, you’re covered under the FMLA and ADA.

What percentage of people with substance abuse issues hold jobs?

They have bills to pay, families to support, and careers to build. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 76 percent of people with substance abuse issues hold jobs. Many people fear that getting treatment at all will hurt their careers or get them fired. However, there are laws that protect people ...

Who to speak to about disability?

Once all the necessary information has been gathered, it’s best to speak to your employer or human resources officer as soon as possible.

What is a return to work agreement?

This is a written document containing all of the employer’s expectations for employees coming back to work after completing a treatment program for an addiction disorder. This is typically used in the case that the employer approached the addicted individual for failure to meet work responsibilities or inappropriate behavior related to substance abuse. If the employee then invokes the right to attempt treatment before being fired, it’s likely that a Return-to-Work Agreement will be arranged.

Can you leave a job for substance abuse treatment?

Federal law offers many forms of job protection to people seeking treatment for substance abuse. Most people can’t just leave a job for several weeks of addiction treatment. And despite certain stereotypes, the vast majority of addicted individuals are employed and live relatively normal lives.

Can you be fired for addiction?

Once you enter a rehabilitation program, you’re protected by the ADA and cannot be fired for reasons related to your addiction or the treatment process, even if it causes you to miss work. If you are fired, you can file a charge of discrimination against your employer.

Is it better to be honest with your employer?

It’s often better to be honest and straightforward with your employer, especially since employees are protected by confidentiality. If your employer comes to you first about a reduction in workplace performance quality, you can protect yourself from being dismissed from your job by being honest about your addiction disorder.

Can you stay in rehab for addiction?

Keep in mind that inpatient rehab is not the only option for addiction treatment. It can work well for individuals with more severe addictions who feel they won’t be able to resist cravings to relapse or for those who have relapsed in the past. However, staying in a facility 24 hours per day for several weeks is not an option for everyone.

“Can My Employer Fire Me For Going to Rehab?”

Laws to Protect Your Job When You’Re in Rehab

• The following laws are worth being familiar with if you’re thinking about going to rehab. 1. Family Medical Leave of Absence Act (FMLA)– Under the terms of the FMLA law, a substance use disorder and/or other mental illness qualifies as a “serious health condition” for which some U.S. employees are entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected medic...

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The Importance of Correct Interpretation and Application of These Laws

Your Career After Treatment