One of the main barriers to seeking drug or alcohol rehab in Arizona is employment. Even though there’s a stereotype that drug addicts are homeless and jobless, it’s just that. In reality, approximately 13.6 million workers have current drug or alcohol use disorders. Many of these individuals are hesitant to seek treatment because they don’t want to lose their jobs.
If you are currently struggling with a substance use disorder but working full-time, you might want to believe that everything is under control. However, addiction is a complex brain disorder that requires treatment. If you don’t get help, you’re likely to make mistakes at work that could cost you your job.
Remember that you have rights in the workplace, and seeking treatment is one of them. The laws only protect you if you seek help, though. These protections do not apply if you show up to work drunk or high. Let’s learn more about the most important protections you have: FMLA and ADA.
What is the Family Medical Leave Act?
The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides certain employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job protected leave per year. During this time, the employee also maintains their health benefits. The purpose of FMLA is to help workers balance their work and family responsibilities by allowing them to take time off.
There are many instances where FMLA comes in handy – the birth and care of a newborn baby, caring for an immediate family member or taking medical leave for a serious health condition. The latter is where addiction treatment comes into the picture – FMLA makes it possible for an employee to seek help without losing their job.
How Does the Americans with Disabilities Act Help?
Not only does FMLA protect your job, but also so does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under this act, employees cannot be discriminated against because of a disability. Addiction qualifies as a disability.
However, the ADA does not protect people who are actively using illegal drugs. It only protects those who are in recovery and not using. Your employer will also have the right to test you for drugs. This is why it’s in your best interest to seek drug or alcohol rehab in AZ sooner rather than later.
In short, as long as you seek help before your performance drops, you cannot lose your job. Your boss may know about your addiction, but you have laws protecting you from discrimination and job loss.
Should I Tell My Work that I’m Going to Rehab in AZ?
Addiction affects millions of people every year. Chances are, you will be met with empathy and understanding if you decide to tell your coworkers. You are taking the next step to get healthy and treat your substance use problem. Of course, it is your choice to share this information. You can also choose to keep things simple and say that you are caring for a family member.
If you do feel that your coworkers are gossiping or treating you differently, speak with your human resources representative. Still, remember that you are doing the right thing by seeking treatment. You will gain confidence in an Arizona rehab, and this will help your self-esteem grow. Even if a few people in the office do decide to talk about you, that says more about them than you.
Wolf Creek Recovery has convenient outpatient treatment programs for working professionals. We will accommodate your work schedule and teach you essential life skills. Contact our team to learn more about seeking a drug or alcohol treatment center in Arizona as a working professional.
Finding purpose in pain is what Jonathon does best. He is a strong advocate for those suffering from substance use disorders. As a person in recovery, Jonathon knows how important it is to receive empathy and compassion. He recognizes that each person comes from a different set of circumstances and deserves to be valued and respected.
With a fresh perspective and compassionate attitude, Jonathon works closely with clients to help them let go of the past and know when to take necessary risks. The recovery process is ongoing, which means people need to move forward while applying the skills learned in treatment. Jonathon is a great motivator when it comes time for this!
Jonathon also places emphasis on the family unit and how it can make or break the recovery experience. Individuals with active, supportive families have far better outcomes. Jonathon realizes that it’s impossible to move mountains overnight, but with the right support team and positive attitude, anything is possible.
