Returning to the workplace after completing drug rehab in PA is a big step in your recovery journey. While this is a new chapter filled with hope and opportunities, it can involve some challenges. Not only are you learning to navigate life without substances, but also returning to work can cause you to face stress and challenges that are triggering.
Many people in recovery find it best to take things slow. Rather than jumping back into full-time work, they may attend an outpatient program and work part time. Speak with your treatment team to determine the best time to return to work and in what capacity. Your support groups will also be valuable, as you’ll learn from others who have done this before you.
As you get ready to return to work, here are some valuable tips that will help you make this transition successful.
Know Your Rights
First off, make sure you understand your rights as you return to work. The more you know, the more you can protect yourself from possible discrimination. Some of the legal protections you have include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
As long as you are seeking treatment for your addiction and coming to work sober, you are protected under these laws. Your employer may even offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that can help with the transition. If you arrive to work under the influence, however, you can be fired from your job.
Communicate with Your Employer
Open communication with your employer is crucial during this transition. If you feel comfortable doing so, share your experience of completing an IOP in Lehigh Valley and your commitment to maintaining sobriety. Of course, you only have to share what you are comfortable with.
Be honest about any limitations you might face initially and express your willingness to work together to ensure a smooth reintegration into the workplace. Honesty can foster understanding and empathy, encouraging your employer and colleagues to provide the necessary support.
Develop a Support Network
Build a support network that includes colleagues, friends, family members and possibly a sponsor or mentor from your recovery program. Having a reliable support system can provide encouragement during challenging times and help you stay focused on your goals.
Also, surround yourself with individuals who are understanding and supportive of your journey, as their positivity can be invaluable in maintaining your motivation. It’s possible that not everyone will be supportive in the workplace, so now is also a good time to think about how you may handle comments from colleagues.
Create a Structured Routine
Establishing a structured daily routine can be immensely beneficial as you return to the workplace. Structure can help you manage stress and avoid triggers, providing stability during this adjustment period.
Plan your work hours, breaks and leisure activities to maintain a sense of balance. You don’t want to cause unnecessary stress by overcommitting to too many hours or projects. Consistency in your routine can also assist in rebuilding your self-discipline and reinforce your commitment to sobriety.
Practice Self-Care
Prioritize self-care to promote overall well-being during this transition. Adequate sleep, regular exercise and a balanced diet contribute to physical and mental wellness. Engaging in mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can also help manage stress and anxiety.
Taking care of yourself allows you to perform at your best in the workplace and maintain your recovery journey with greater ease. It also shows your boss and coworkers that you’re taking sobriety seriously. After all, true recovery is not just about being sober. It’s about building a life that has meaning and fulfillment.
Set Realistic Expectations
Returning to the workplace after an intensive outpatient program in Easton PA is likely to have some challenges. Understand that setbacks and difficulties are a natural part of the process. Set realistic expectations for yourself. Be patient as you adjust to the work environment and identify coping strategies to manage stress effectively.
You will also have to prepare yourself for the different feedback you may receive. Remember that you can only control yourself, not others. If people want to gossip about you or comment on things that make you uncomfortable, it’s a reflection of them and not you.
Take things slow with your coworkers, but be prepared for some reluctance. In time, this should get better as your coworkers see that you are committed to your recovery and working towards being a valuable member of the team.
Avoid High-Risk Situations
Identify potential high-risk situations in the workplace that could trigger cravings or temptations. Whether it's social gatherings where alcohol is present or interactions with certain colleagues, be mindful of your triggers and plan ways to avoid or navigate these situations safely. If necessary, speak with your employer about potential accommodations that can help safeguard your sobriety.
Consider Moving to Another Company
If you’re having a difficult time adjusting to work, you may find it best to change companies. This may be especially true if your current job is stressful and demanding, or if your coworkers used to do drugs or alcohol with you. Fortunately, you can find a number of jobs that suit your needs, including some in the addiction treatment field.
Addiction Treatment Services for Professionals
Returning to the workplace after completing drug rehab in PA is a significant achievement. Some of the ways you can make this transition easier are by communicating openly with your employer, developing a support network and creating a structured routine.
Remember that each person's journey is unique, and it's okay to seek help and guidance as you navigate this transition. In fact, you may even benefit from participating in an outpatient program while returning to work part time. These small steps make a huge impact on building a healthier, brighter future.
To learn more about the treatment services we have available, contact Recovery Cove today. We have various outpatient programs, including intensive outpatient, standard outpatient and partial hospitalization. We also have a Professionals Program that allows licensed professionals to access high quality treatment services.
