Supporting employees returning to the workplace after completing a rehabilitation program is essential for fostering recovery, well-being, and long-term productivity. Individuals coming back from treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) face unique challenges, such as adjusting to work routines and managing potential triggers. Employers can play a crucial role by creating a supportive environment that encourages recovery and reduces the risk of relapse.
If you are returning to work after receiving treatment for SUD, it’s normal to have concerns about what this process will look like. Below we explore practical strategies that employers can implement to help workers like you reintegrate successfully after rehab.
Foster a Non-Judgmental, Inclusive Workplace Culture
Employees in recovery often worry about being stigmatized by their colleagues. Common concerns include mistreatment, stereotyping, and negative bias. Your employer can help create a non-judgmental environment by educating staff about addiction as a medical condition, enforcing anti-discrimination policies, and encouraging open communication for all employees. Creating an inclusive culture can help you and other returning employees feel welcome and supported. It’s almost guaranteed that you are not the only employee affected by substance use.
Honor Return-to-Work Plans
A customized return-to-work plan ensures that the transition back to work is smooth and manageable. A key element to include in your plan is flexible work hours that give you time to adjust. This is especially important if you are stepping down to an outpatient program and gradually transitioning to everyday life. Part-time or reduced schedules can help you adjust.
Some companies do a phased integration where they gradually increase responsibilities to prevent overwhelming the employee. This is something you can consider. Also, now is a good time to re-define your tasks and performance expectations to avoid confusion. Your return-to-work plan should be tailored to your individual needs, with input from HR, your healthcare providers, and yourself.
Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
EAPs are a valuable resource for employees managing recovery while working. According to the International Employee Assistance Professional Association, about 90% of small companies use EAPs, and about 80% of larger companies use them. If your company has an EAP, ask about counseling services, substance use support groups, and referrals to additional resources. EAPs can be a lifeline for employees facing stress or potential relapse triggers at work. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that they exist.
Provide Ongoing Mental Health Support
Recovery is not just about abstaining from substances—it also involves managing mental health. Talk to your employer about some of the options available for improving mental health. This isn’t just important for you but also the company as a whole. Here are some ideas:
- Offer mental health days
- Provide greater flexibility
- Create a positive work environment
- Provide mental wellness resources
- Create safe spaces for employees who are feeling overwhelmed
- Encourage breaks throughout the day
- Increase options for where, when, and how employees work
- Reexamine health insurance policies
Maintain Open and Confidential Communication
Ideally, your employer and/or manager should stay in regular, supportive contact with you without prying into personal matters. They can schedule private, periodic check-ins to discuss how you are adjusting, giving you a chance to share what is working and what is not. A healthy work culture allows employees to express concerns about their workload or the work environment without retaliation or backlash. Building trust through respectful communication will help you form a positive relationship with your employer.
Participate in Your Support Networks
Ongoing participation in recovery groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), helps maintain sobriety. Even though you are back to work, your recovery is still your priority. Your employer should allow time for you to attend group sessions without penalty, plus offer resources for peer support groups, if available. Some workplaces even recognize their employees’ progress in recovery by celebrating their milestones, if this is something they are comfortable with.
Monitor Workload and Stress Levels
High stress is a significant trigger for relapse. Your employer can help ensure that your tasks are manageable and aligned with your capabilities. They can also promote time off and discourage overworking, helping you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. However, your employer may not be in the office every day, which means they may not know everything that is going on with you. Be sure to maintain open communication to prevent misunderstandings.
Address Potential Triggers in the Workplace
Certain workplace dynamics can act as triggers for employees in recovery. Let your employer know what your triggers are so that they can take an active role in helping you to avoid them. This could involve not assigning certain tasks to you or placing you in environments that make you uncomfortable. Do not feel forced to attend events that are not alcohol-free.
Prepare for Possible Relapse
Relapse is sometimes part of the recovery process, and your employer should be prepared to respond with compassion. You may need to raise your level of care, attend more therapy sessions, or reduce your working hours. If relapse occurs, you can access counseling or rehab resources without being discriminated against under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Approaching relapse as a treatable part of recovery encourages employees to seek help.
Outpatient Substance Use Treatment in Easton, PA
Returning to work after rehab can be stressful, but your employer should respond with empathy and flexibility. Your mental health should be a priority for your employer, as employees who are mentally healthy improve productivity, reduce absenteeism, and boost morale.
Recovery Cove offers flexible outpatient programs that allow individuals to return to work while receiving personalized, high-quality care. We offer a Professionals Program that is tailored to working professionals like lawyers, pilots, and healthcare providers. This program is run by accredited substance use professionals and clinicians and includes nutritional counseling, spiritual direction, biofeedback, EMDR, and more. Contact our team today at 484-549-COVE to learn more about our programs.
