If you are employed and are recovering from addiction, you are not alone. Approximately 70 percent of people who suffer from a substance use disorder are employed. You may be torn about going to rehab because you are concerned about your employment being affected. Keep in mind that long-term health and happiness is more important than short-term sacrifices. Inpatient rehab has been proven so successful because it allows clients to solely focus on their recovery without the relapse triggers of the outside world. You may think that the rules that ban electronic communication are pointless. However, they are intended to benefit your recovery.
Electronic communication is banned from Florida rehab facilities because they are a distraction to the recovery process and pose the risk of you switching addictions instead of recovering. Being privy to issues going on at work and with family and friends can hinder from focusing on yourself and make you anxious about your release. In this day and age, it is common knowledge that electronic communication can be addictive. It is not electronic communication that is addictive itself; it is the people that are addictive. Addiction to people is called codependency. Many people alternate their addiction as opposed to genuinely recovering from all addictive behaviors. Rehabs definitely do not want you switching addictions while you are there to recover.
How to Keep Your Employment While You are in Rehab Facility in Florida
Addiction is viewed as a disease by the government; therefore, there are several ways that you protect your employment:
• Family Leave Act (FMLA)
You are eligible to take off work for up to 12 weeks under the FMLA. You will not be paid for the 12 weeks off or guaranteed to resume in the same position. Your employer is only required to give you the time off and have a position available for you when you return. You must notify your employer and file the paperwork before you go to treatment.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Substance use disorder is now considered a disability under the ADA. Your employer cannot fire you for admitting that you have a substance use disorder and requesting treatment. However, your employer can fire you for being intoxicated on the job and refusing treatment.
• Consider Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient rehab allows you to continue working while going to treatment. This is an option for those who are in the early stages of substance use disorder. Outpatient rehab requires more work and discipline, but it is possible.
If you are struggling with addiction, Florida rehabs are an excellent option. They use evidence-based treatment methods, hire compassionate staff, and have beautiful, comfortable living conditions for the clients. Call one of them at 833-846-5669 or visit their websites today.