There is a stereotype that people with addiction often live on the streets, homeless from not having a job or income. However, in reality, over 10 million people with substance use disorders work full-time jobs, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association.
While it’s nice to know that you’re not alone, it can still feel isolating when you want to start rehab but you’re not sure how it will affect your job. The good news is that it’s possible to keep your job and even continue working while receiving addiction treatment in Newport Beach.
Please be aware that working while attending rehab is not the right decision for everyone. Some people need to focus entirely on their recovery and do best with taking a leave of absence. Be sure to make this decision carefully with your treatment team and loved ones.
Outpatient Rehab in Newport Beach Lets You Keep Your Job – But Know that You Do Have Rights
Most outpatient treatment centers require their clients to visit for at least three hours most days of the week. These hours are typically flexible and can be done in the mornings, afternoons or evenings, allowing you to continue working. You may have to adjust your hours, but you can certainly keep your job and earn a living.
It’s also important to know that you do have rights in the workplace whether you choose to work part-time, full-time or take a leave of absence. Talk to your HR department so that you know your rights and limitations. In general, here is what to expect:
- The Family Leave and Medical Act (FMLA) provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for serious health conditions, including addiction.
- The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, including addiction, to federal employees and federal contractors’ employees.
- The Fair Housing Act requires housing facilities to offer equal opportunities for those with disabilities, as well as prohibits housing discrimination.
- The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects patient confidentiality, which means you have control over who sees your information.
Your employer still has the right to maintain a drug-free workplace, so you may be required to take routine drug tests. Also, you can still be fired if you arrive at work drunk or high. Your job is only protected if you are receiving treatment for an addiction or are in addiction recovery in Newport Beach.
Creating a Balanced Schedule
Work is important to many people, especially if they are the sole provider. But you must still balance your schedule so that you can make the most of treatment. Outpatient rehab is flexible and designed to let people maintain some of their normal routine, but it cannot be an afterthought.
In other words, it may be okay to work while seeking outpatient drug treatment in Orange County, but you may need to take a leave of absence in the beginning. Outpatient treatment is often a “step down” from an inpatient program, which offers 24-hour care and monitoring.
Ultimately, what’s best for you is a personal decision that you will need to discuss with your treatment team and loved ones.
Informing Employers About Treatment
Regardless of whether or not your treatment plan leaves you time to work, you should still inform your employer about your situation. Your drug rehab program in Newport Beach will expect you to put time and effort into your recovery, as well as attend as many therapy sessions as possible.
Your employer likely has a policy about this situation, so check the employee handbook or talk to your HR department. Some companies also have an employee assistance program (EAP) that can provide you with information. In some cases, you can keep these matters private. In others, you’ll have to share some information with your employer.
How Flexible is Outpatient Treatment When it Comes to Working?
Outpatient drug rehab in Newport Beach is actually very flexible when it comes to maintaining your normal routine. Most outpatient rehab facilities require three hours of therapy, three days a week. This can easily fit into most schedules.
You may have to drop down to part-time hours, change your working hours or switch shifts, but working while attending therapy is something that is done every day. In fact, some people continue in outpatient programs long-term while resuming most of their normal activities.
But as we’ve mentioned, your recovery must be a priority. You can’t just dart out of work and over to therapy. You must arrive at treatment ready to work, learn and grow. This is why we often recommend starting with detox and inpatient treatment, and then “stepping down” to an outpatient program where you can start working part-time hours.
Luxury Drug Rehab in Newport Beach: Treatment that Fits Your Schedule
Newport Beach Recovery Center offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment for those struggling with drug or alcohol issues. We have flexible hours that allow our clients to work and maintain their normal schedules. Whether you are just starting your journey or are looking to step down to a lower level of care, we can help you make this transition. Contact Newport Beach Recovery Center to speak to our admissions team.
