How to Tell Your Employer About Rehab
Substance use disorder (SUD), or addiction, can bring a load of stress, confusion and frustration to an individual’s life. Entering treatment for drug or alcohol use, while a commendable and brave step, can be a stressful decision – especially when you have a job that you are concerned about. You may feel ready to take back control of your life through treatment but are wondering how to tell your employer about rehab.
How to Tell Your Employer About Rehab
Often, prospective patients don’t know where to begin when it comes to speaking with their employer about rehab. The majority of the time, patients aren’t aware of their rights or even who at work to talk with.
5 Ways to Prepare for a Conversation with Your Employer
- Schedule an appointment to speak with the right person at your place of employment. Oftentimes, this person is part of Human Resources. They will be your best resource to obtain time off or medical leave.
- Prepare what you plan to say and a list of your questions in advance. Being prepared ahead of time for this meeting will help reduce your stress during the conversation and help you to remain calm and articulate your needs and questions clearly.
- Provide only the necessary information. Many patients aren’t aware that they are not expected to get into detail as to why they need to take leave or time off to obtain medical treatment. The details of your treatment will be provided by your treatment providers when he appropriate documentation is completed.
- Obtain copies of all forms and documentation that you need completed from your treatment providers. Whether it is completed by the meeting or sent afterwards, this documentation is often necessary to obtain medical leave.
- Have the conversation. Often, patients abandon their positions without speaking to their employer out of fear. But many employers offer leave options that protect your position if you are in need of treatment.
Resources and Support
There are many resources and options for support when it comes to telling your employer about rehab. We encourage you to explore your options when it comes to state and federal laws – as each state has different laws when it comes to FMLA or short-term disability.
Additionally, your human resources department can be an asset as you navigate filing for leave. They can help you to determine what you are eligible for and the steps you need to take in order to be approved for leave. If your place of employment has an EAP or Union, it may be in your best interest to reach out to them for assistance.
Entering Treatment for Addiction
It is extremely difficult and vulnerable informing the people closest to you that you need treatment, including your employer. It is completely natural to feel nervous or stressed during this process. But remember, our team at Wellbridge will assist in providing any documentation you may need to provide to your employer.
Making the decision to get support in your recovery by entering addiction treatment is a huge step that takes courage but can change your life for the better. Don’t let the fear surrounding how to tell your employer about rehab stop you from getting the help that you need and deserve.
Learn more about admission at Wellbridge and contact us at this form or (631) 508-5400.