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Work-related stress, long hours, and on-the-job demands can cause business professionals to turn to addictive substances like drugs and alcohol. This can be especially true for business professionals who are prone to overworking and burnout. Research shows that corporate executives, dentists, pilots, attorneys, law enforcement officers, physicians, and other healthcare workers tend to have an increased risk of stress and mental health issues.
Sadly, many of these working professionals try to numb their distress with drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, this unhealthy method of coping with challenges can easily develop into an addiction. Fortunately, there are resources business professionals can use to get the treatment they need and maintain the career they love.
If you or someone you know is a professional in need of addiction treatment, here are 5 tips to consider as you search for a recovery program that best fits your personal and professional needs.
Executive drug rehab programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of busy professionals who need to address addiction challenges. Executive programs, which can be both inpatient and outpatient, allow professionals to work online or by phone as needed while they receive treatment in a private secure environment. These programs differ from typical treatment which usually emphasizes distraction-free recovery.
Because the majority of people enrolling in executive rehabilitation programs cannot simply walk away from their position for 30 days or more, these programs allow remote access to work but encourage individuals to limit their work participation so they can focus on recovery.
These laser-focused programs which are designed to provide the most comprehensive treatment in a short amount of time, tend to offer:
Due to the higher level of treatment standards and the access to phones, computers, and other work-related devices, executive rehab programs can be more costly than standard treatment programs. However, business professionals can use a combination of insurance, personal loans, private scholarships, and grants to help cover the costs.
Most workplaces have programs in place to help employees get the help they need for substance abuse and mental health challenges. One such program is a company’s EAP, or Employee Assistance Program. EAP is a confidential, employer-sponsored resource that business professionals can use to help them overcome personal challenges.
This work-based intervention program, which was designed to help employees resolve personal problems that can affect their performance at work, can help business professionals dealing with:
Through EAP, working professionals can receive free assessments, counseling, coaching, and referrals for additional services related to their well-being while they continue to work full-time. To receive these benefits, employees simply need to contact their EAP program and ask to speak to a counselor over the phone or in person. Even though EAP is a work-based program, all the services provided are confidential.
Business professionals can also look into more flexible outpatient treatment programs. Outpatient addiction treatment can be a great option for people who are motivated to stop using their substance of choice but need a program accommodating enough to work around their schedule. Unlike inpatient rehabilitation which requires individuals to live onsite at the treatment facility, outpatient rehab allows individuals to choose their own accommodations, including their own homes or sober living facilities.
Clients can schedule outpatient treatment sessions at various times throughout the week. This flexibility can allow working professionals to continue with their regular work responsibilities while they recover from addiction challenges. Different programs have an array of services, but generally, outpatient treatment focuses on behavioral counseling, developing healthier coping strategies, and peer support.
Here at Meta, we offer 3 different tiers of outpatient treatment. Our programs include:
Business professionals interested in intensive outpatient or inpatient treatment can take advantage of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) which protects individuals getting help for addiction challenges from discrimination. This legislation, along with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), can help business professionals seek and receive treatment without losing the jobs they rely upon.
Under the FMLA, qualified employees can take 12 weeks of medical leave for addiction treatment each year. Even though this leave is unpaid, professionals can apply for disability benefits until their treatment is completed and they can return to work. Business professionals that enter a rehabilitation program are protected by the ADA and cannot be fired for any reason related to addiction or the treatment process. If they are fired, they can file a charge of discrimination against their employer. This legislation applies to all state and local government employees and private companies with 15 or more employees.
Even though participating in an addiction peer support group isn’t the same as enrolling in a professional treatment program, connecting with people who are in the process of recovering can help connect professionals with other people in their field who are rehabilitating their life. Like-minded peers can also help recommend local counselors, therapists, and treatment programs that can be beneficial to business professionals.
To find peer support groups right here in Massachusetts, check out the:
Here at Meta, we provide real recovery options for real people, including business professionals. You don’t have to give up your career in order to overcome addiction and live a sober life. Our outpatient programs can help you maintain your work schedule and receive the treatment you’re looking for. We can also help you learn more about EAP, the Americans with Disability Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Let us help you take charge of your recovery. Contact us today.