How can I get my boss to help me go to rehab?
Apr 18, 2019 · Ask your boss for guidance. Go to your boss and explain that you have a medical situation that you need to address and that you will need time off. Tell him or her that you do not feel comfortable discussing details, but that you desperately need life-saving medical treatment and ask for support. Here is something to keep in mind – your boss ...
How do I talk to my employer about rehab?
Mar 28, 2018 · Avoid telling any coworkers before telling your boss. Office gossip spreads, and you’ll want to be able to craft the message you relay to your boss without it getting distorted through other channels first. Have your treatment plan lined up. You can reach out to rehab centers that offer treatment to people who are working or who are taking leave.
What are the best jobs for people in recovery?
Aug 04, 2020 · Before speaking to your employer about rehab, you should refer to any employee handbooks or other work documents to confirm your company’s policies about drug and alcohol use, rehabilitation and medical leave. If you do not have access to these documents or have questions, request them with your human resources team.
How do I talk to my boss about my addiction?
The Guide to Keeping Your Job Before, During and After Rehab. 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. Unfortunately, many people …
What do you say to someone who just got out of rehab?
8 Things to Say to Someone in RecoveryI Love You. ... You're Not Alone. ... Everyone Needs Help Sometimes. ... How Are You Feeling? ... How Can I Help? ... Let's Hang Out. ... I'm Proud of You. ... I Know You Are Struggling, But There's Always Hope.May 29, 2019
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 does a case manager do in recovery?
A Case Manager/Care Coordinator works directly with people in addiction treatment or recovery. This work may also involve families and friends of the client. A Case Manager/Care Coordinator also works with service providers, to engage resources and achieve coordination of care for a client.
What happens if you tell your employer you have a drug problem?
In the US, your employer can discipline or fire you if your alcohol or drug use impairs your ability to do your job. However, employers cannot discipline or fire you simply because you tell them you have a substance problem.Aug 28, 2019
Is alcoholism considered a medical condition?
Alcohol use disorder (sometimes called alcoholism) is a medical condition. It involves heavy or frequent alcohol drinking even when it causes problems, emotional distress or physical harm. A combination of medications, behavioral therapy and support can help you or a loved one recover.Jun 2, 2021
Can you be fired for being an alcoholic in Canada?
Human rights laws prohibit discrimination on the grounds of disability. Addiction is considered to be a disability and, as such, an employee cannot be fired for being addicted to substances such as drugs or alcohol.
What are the 4 models of case management?
There are four basic levels involved with case management - intake, needs assessment, service planning, and monitoring and evaluating - which will be analyzed here.Jul 1, 2020
What are the five major functions of case management?
The case management process consists of five parts: assessment, treatment planning, linking, advocacy, and monitoring.
What is the difference between a care coordinator and a case manager?
The distinction between a care coordinator and a case manager is that the coordinator works with, and guides, the team process, and tasks while building collaboration with all parties at the table. The agency-specific case manager works with and guides the service needs of the client-specific to its agency.May 11, 2020
What do you tell people when you go to rehab?
Disclosing some of your dishonesty and shortcomings will likely prove to your friends and family that going to rehab is an earnest decision. It is also possible your friends and family already know you haven't been truthful with them and coming clean can also establish a sense of trust.Aug 18, 2021
Should I tell my boss I have a drinking problem?
By law, employers must maintain confidentiality regarding any information they receive regarding the addiction or substance abuse treatment of any of their employees.Oct 7, 2016
Can I get fired for going to rehab twice?
Though in general, you would not be fired for going to rehab, there may be other circumstances surrounding your second rehab stay that could come i...
What about work while I’m in rehab?
To concentrate on their treatment, people attending an inpatient rehab program will generally be unable to complete work duties while onsite at the...
What happens if I lose my job while seeking treatment?
Going to rehab without using accrued time off or on an FMLA leave can lead to losing your job. If your company had a strict drug-free policy before...
Will I face negative consequences at work after returning from rehab?
This will largely depend on your employer and the company culture where you work. The ADA protects individuals from discrimination based on a disab...
Protection Under The Family Medical Leave Act
If you’re ready to head to rehab, it’s understandable that you might be concerned about keeping your job until you get back.
The Importance Of Drug And Alcohol Rehab
It’s true—going to rehab changes your life, but it also takes you away from your everyday life for a bit. In light of this, you might be asking yourself if rehab will be worth the price you pay. Consider this: substance abuse and addiction can cause a lot of consequences for your life, from your personal life to your health to your job.
What Happens In Treatment?
Once you get through the hurdle of telling your boss, you’ll probably want to know what exactly will happen in treatment. Each rehab center is different from the next, but the great ones integrate a number of treatment methods for a well-rounded healing experience.
Talk To An Expert About Treatment Preparation Today
A lot of planning goes into preparing for treatment. It may be discouraging at times.
What laws prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities?
Federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on disability. Many people with past or current drug or alcohol problems are protected from discrimination by: 1 1 The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 2 The Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
What is the ADA?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits most employers from refusing to hire, firing, or discriminating against qualified potential employees based on their disability. The law protects workers in recovery from alcoholism or drug addiction and qualifies addiction as a disability. 6
Can an employer discriminate against an employee based on disability?
Also learn some tips on how to prepare to talk to your boss about taking medical leave for treatment. Federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on disability. Many people with past or current drug or alcohol problems are protected from discrimination by: 1.
What happens if you test positive for drugs?
If you test positive for drugs during a drug test, this information will be kept confidential, like any medical record. 6 You may also be tested after returning from treatment. If you test positive, your employer may consider you a “current” drug user and terminate your job. 6.
Can an employer take a drug test?
An employer can drug test at any time. If you are applying for a position, you may be required to take a drug test as a condition of your job offer. You may also be required to take drug tests even if the drug test is not related to your position or necessary for the business.
How long is FMLA?
FMLA gives employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a 12-month period for certain qualifying reasons. 4 One qualifying reason for leave is a serious health condition by which your healthcare provider finds you unable to work at all or unable to perform any one of the essential functions of your job.
Is substance use disorder a stigma?
Studies show that the stigma experienced by people with substance use disorders is comparable to HIV/AIDS, mental disorders, and being an ex-convict. 7 This is a hard reality that you may want to take into consideration when you are preparing to talk to your boss.
How to recover from a job?
Once you’ve secured your position, it’s important to deliver the promises you made to your new employer. The best way to do that is by fully dedicating yourself to your recovery. Some ways you can do this is by: 1 Maintaining a professional image. Dress appropriately for your job and be sure to stay neatly groomed. 2 Getting to know your coworkers. Showing interest in your new colleagues creates a great first impression. 3 Offering your help on projects. This shows initiative that your bosses will be sure to notice. 4 Attending company events. Being part of the team on and off the clock shows you’re a committed and engaged employee. 5 Continuing with your recovery. Take care of yourself by regularly attending counseling sessions and support group meetings.
What to do before starting job search?
Before you start scouring job boards on the Internet or highlighting newspaper classifieds , it’s important to start with the foundation of every job search – your resume. Make sure it’s updated with your most recent job experience, as well as the highest level of education you’ve completed. If you don’t have a resume or unsure of where to start, enlist a family member or friend to help. Many communities also have workforce coalitions that can help with resume writing.
Is it good to start small?
Starting small can be a good thing if there’s plenty of room for growth in a company. If you’re applying for jobs in a new field, an internship or volunteer position can get your foot in the door. If you start to feel anxious or overwhelmed by your search, don’t worry.
What is America in Recovery?
America in Recovery is one such organization that assists people who struggle to find employment because of their substance abuse history. Their online job board matches candidates with companies that believe in giving second chances.
What is Jeffrey Juergens's degree?
Jeffrey Juergens earned his Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor from the University of Florida. Jeffrey’s desire to help others led him to focus on economic and social development and policy making. After graduation, he decided to pursue his passion of writing and editing. Jeffrey’s mission is to educate and inform the public on addiction issues and help those in need of treatment find the best option for them.
Why do people avoid rehab?
Many people avoid rehab for substance abuse because they fear losing their job or experiencing social stigma at work. Today, federal laws and workplace policies are in place to protect people who want to recover from addiction. Understanding your rights as an employee and having a plan can help you keep your job during treatment.
What is the best treatment for addiction?
People with a less severe addiction may consider outpatient rehab or telehealth counseling as alternatives to inpatient care. These types of programs are more flexible, potentially with minimal interruptions to your work schedule.
How long is FMLA?
Several federal laws protect your right to work in recovery. The most important of these is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for serious health conditions, including addiction.
Can you be fired for taking FMLA?
So, while you cannot be fired for taking FMLA, you can still be fired for the underlying substance abuse issue, depending on your employer’s specific policies.
What to do if you are on FMLA?
Your employer may ask you to fill out paperwork regarding your unpaid time off if you’re using FMLA. They may also ask you to sign a Return-to-Work Agreement, explaining what’s expected of your return. These agreements may include: Complying with all treatment recommendations from your rehab provider.
How many hours do you need to work to qualify for unemployment?
To qualify, the employee must: Work for their employer for at least 12 months and at least 1,250 hours over the past 12 month period. Work at a location where the company employs at least 50 people within 75 miles or is a public agency, elementary or secondary school.
Does the ADA protect you from discrimination?
This will largely depend on your employer and the company culture where you work. The ADA protects individuals from discrimination based on a disability, including being in recovery after drug or alcohol use. However, people in recovery should be prepared for others to treat them differently after rehab.
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.
What is FMLA for addiction?
Both the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protect addicted individuals from discrimination and help them get the treatment they need without losing the jobs they need to survive. 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. This applies to all state and local government employers and private companies with 15 or more employees. Under the FMLA, qualified employees can take 12 weeks of medical leave for issues that include addiction disorders each year. Unfortunately, this leave is generally unpaid unless the employer chooses to provide paid leave. This may not be an option for part-time or contract employees or for those who cannot afford to go several weeks without pay.
How much does drug abuse cost the US?
After all, drug and alcohol abuse costs the US over $700 billion each year, mostly from workplace accidents, crime, healthcare, and loss of productivity.
Is there an addiction treatment center in the US?
There are many addiction treatment centers across the US and other countries, but there are a number of factors that can make accessing that treatment more complicated than it should be. One of the most common issues experienced by addicted individuals crops up when medical professionals recommend inpatient treatment to those who have jobs.
What is a medical professional?
A medical professional may be able to provide more information on state disability benefits and guide individuals through the application process. It’s also important to know that employers are required to maintain confidentiality regarding their employees’ medical issues.
How many people in the US were addicted to drugs in 2009?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, there were 23.5 million people in the US aged 12 or older who needed addiction treatment in 2009, but only 2.6 million of them received any treatment. Knowing your rights in terms of addiction treatment while employed can be the first step toward getting needed help.
Is addiction a mental illness?
However, there are laws that protect people with addiction disorders from workplace discrimination and particularly from being fired for addiction, which is considered to be a legitimate mental illness.
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.
What is the return to work agreement?
When you return to work, it is essential that you fulfill any requirements set forth in the Return-to-Work agreement that your employer may have set forth before you left for treatment. This may entail that you willingly comply with any drug tests you may need to take upon your arrival.
How many people are employed with substance abuse?
Furthermore, despite some common stereotypes and misconceptions around addiction being a main concern with people who are already unemployed, the reality is that an estimated 76% of people suffering from a substance abuse disorder are actually employed.
Can substance abuse affect your job?
Don’t fear judgement or worry about your reputation- It is highly likely that your substance abuse disorder has impacted your job performance, however, this should not deter you from getting the help you need. Receiving treatment can only strengthen your job performance upon returning to work.
How long can you work on FMLA?
Lastly, it is possible that you may qualify for 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave due to medical reasons (going to drug/alcohol rehab) within a 12-month period under the FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act).
