Should I tell work I’m going to rehab?

I’m going to rehab, what should I tell work?

One very concerning issue when going to rehab or luxury treatment facility is what to tell work. Your concerns are warranted, but it’s important to keep in mind that people who are going to rehab for substance abuse problems are much more likely to keep their jobs than people who do not. In fact, many go on to even better positions. Here is what to tell work when going to rehab:

Keep in mind, your boss may already know your Going to Rehab

You may think you’ve been able to hide going to rehab from your co-workers up to this point, and maybe you did, but the chances are greater that they already know. As addiction escalates, the signs and symptoms become more obvious. Practicing addicts almost always have a false reality of how they actually come across to others. Understand your company policy. Before you talk to your employer about your plans to attend a recovery center, look into your company’s drug and alcohol policy. If they don’t have one, examine the healthcare policy for sick employees

Don’t lie about going to Rehab

Part of the disease of addiction thinking that telling others the truth is too difficult, that the perceived judgment of others and the shame of self-holds people back from honesty. Be discerning, and be honest. You will most likely find a compassionate ear and sound advise these days. Whether or not your employer suspects you have a substance abuse problem, your best bet is to be as upfront and honest as possible. Your employer may offer you additional resources through the Employee Assistance Program, such as counseling or referral to a physician or specific treatment center. Plus, your honesty will communicate your commitment to the company and integrity as a person. Backed with the support from your employer, you will have a much better chance of a successful recovery from substance abuse.

Know your rights when your going to rehab

Many employers have policies in place to protect employees who seek substance abuse treatment. And according to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), most employees who have been in their job for at least 12 months are permitted to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for a family or medical reason within each calendar year. You can use this time for addiction recovery treatment. The FMLA also assures you will have your job when you return. After all, it costs employers more to hire and train a new employee than to give a valued one the time off you need.

Don’t worry about reputation when your going to rehab

Chances are, your addiction has hindered your job performance in some way. Maybe you were late a few times because you were hungover. Or perhaps you even used drugs or alcohol on the job, and the quality of your work suffered because of it. By addressing the problem and getting treatment, you will improve your work in the future. Research shows, employees who attend rehab have better job performance and fewer absences after they get well. In addition, many people view addiction very differently these days; it does not hold the stigma that it used to, and being in recovery can boost your reputation, rather than diminish it.

Be prepared when your going to rehab

Disclosing your rehab plans to your employer will help assure your job functions will be covered while you’re gone. Talk to your fellow employees about your current clients and projects, and don’t be afraid to delegate some of the work so you don’t come back to an overwhelming pile when you return. In several rehabs, electronics and communication to the outside world, including your job, may not be able to happen. Ask the treatment center ahead of time what their policy on cell phones, computers, and outside communication is. When in rehab, it is most helpful to NOT engage in outside stressors, so take care of any needs at work that can’t be avoided prior to entering. Remember that it is a very short time out of your life, put yourself first. These are suggestions only when going to rehab. If after reading these tips you still don’t feel comfortable talking to your employer about going to rehab, that’s OK. You don’t have to tell them. Ask your manager for a leave of absence or use any accrued vacation time, so you don’t have to give a reason why you will be away. Another option is to share your plans with your boss only and then attend a recovery center outside of your hometown. Some rehabs specialize in treating professionals and executives and promise to protect privacy. Being away from your own town can also have other advantages, like temptations and triggers. Many people seeking rehab travel to a rehab facility away from their home, including out of state. This is beneficial in some cases because it removes users from their home environment where they abuse drugs or alcohol. In such a distinctly separate location, those attending rehab are able to fully focus on their addiction issues, free of outside distractions or temptations from work, family, and friends. Everyone is different and has their own set of circumstances. Look this over and plan accordingly, but please attend a treatment center and don’t wait.