If you’re struggling with substance abuse, you are not alone. The Addiction Center reports that about 21 million Americans have at least one addiction that’s hindering their health, safety, and wellbeing. Addiction doesn’t discriminate; people of all ages, genders, or races can succumb to its effects. As it worsens, addiction can have overreaching effects on every aspect of your life.
It’s important to remember that addiction doesn’t always look the same. If you don’t notice the signs creeping up, you may not realize you need help until it’s too late. To get the resources you need to help with your recovery, it’s necessary to be honest with the people around you. This includes employers as well.
Despite its prevalence, the stigma against addiction and recovered addicts continues to exist. Studies have reported that employers may have inhibitions about hiring people with former substance abuse problems owing to a fear of relapses.
Approaching your employer
There are a lot of questions racing through your mind when you consider whether you can keep your job through the journey with addiction and recovery:
- Will I be fired because of it?
- Do I really need to inform them if it doesn’t affect my performance?
- Will I be treated respectfully?
Owing to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it’s illegal for an employee to discriminate against an employee on the basis of a mental or physical disability. A dependency on substances such as drugs and alcohol is considered a disability. This law protects you from discrimination solely on the basis of your addiction and will allow you to keep working during recovery.
The difficulties at work
Attempting to hold down a job while dealing with an active addiction can be difficult. If your condition is hindering your performance, your employer may be displeased. Addiction can affect your motivation, organization, productivity, or mood.
When you do seek the treatment you need, the law will help you keep your job. According to the Family and Medical Leave Act, you are eligible for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to deal with medical concerns.
Maintaining an open line of communication and being honest with your employer can help you keep your job during your addiction and recovery. The only thing you need is the will to fight against the addiction.
Countless people have won this battle, and you will, too! With Omega Recovery, you’ll receive all the facilities and care you need to get back on your feet. Our Intensive Outpatient Programs, Partial Hospitalization Programs, sober living facilities, and treatment houses in Austin allow you to work with some of the best therapists in the area.
Fight your addictions through our Active Recovery Coaching. It’ll help you holistically improve your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. We have some of the most qualified professionals working in our team; we’re ready to help you escape your addiction too!
Contact us at (512) 601-5407 or visiting our website for more information.
