Can’t Go to Job Sober: What to Do
If you’re struggling with addiction, showing up to work sober may seem impossible. When addiction reaches this point, it can affect every aspect of life, including job performance, relationships with coworkers, and personal well-being. If you find yourself in this situation, there is hope. This guide will cover everything you need to know about getting sober while keeping your job and how you can take the necessary steps to reclaim control of your life.
Understanding the Problem
Addiction is a powerful force that can disrupt your daily life, making it hard to function, especially in professional environments. The need to drink or use drugs before work or while at work can be a sign of severe dependence. You may feel like you can’t go to your job sober and may be drunk or high at work. This not only puts your health at risk but also endangers your job and relationships with others. Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward recovery. It’s important to understand that you’re not alone—many people in similar situations have found the path to sobriety without losing their jobs.
Identifying the Signs of Addiction
If you’re unsure whether you have reached a point where you need help, consider the following signs:
- You feel you cannot perform your job without using substances. You feel like you can’t go to your job sober.
- You rely on drugs or alcohol to manage work-related stress.
- You experience withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stay sober for work.
- Your job performance has suffered, and coworkers or supervisors have noticed changes in your behavior.
If any of these apply to you, it’s crucial to seek help sooner rather than later.
Seeking Help for Addiction While Employed
One of the biggest concerns for individuals with addiction is how to get sober while maintaining employment. It may feel overwhelming, but there are resources and strategies available to help you achieve sobriety while keeping your job.
Use Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential counseling and support services. These programs can help connect you with addiction recovery resources without your employer knowing the details of your situation. EAPs can also offer short-term solutions such as flexible working hours or time off to attend treatment programs, making it easier to manage both your recovery and your job.
Take Advantage of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for serious health conditions, which include addiction treatment. This means that you can take time off to focus on getting sober without the fear of losing your job. Keep in mind that FMLA protects your job, but you will need to meet specific eligibility requirements, such as having worked for your employer for at least 12 months.
Talk to Your Employer
While it may feel intimidating, being honest with your employer could be the best option. In many cases, employers appreciate the transparency and may offer support or accommodations, such as temporary leave or a flexible schedule. Remember, addiction is a medical condition, and you have the right to seek treatment without being discriminated against. It’s important to have a plan in place before speaking with your employer so you can explain how you intend to get help and how it will affect your work.
Treatment Options
Getting sober while maintaining a job requires the right treatment plan, and at Ocean Ridge, we offer options designed specifically for working professionals. With a focus on flexibility and support, the programs at Ocean Ridge can help you achieve sobriety without jeopardizing your career. If you feel like you can’t go to your job sober or you’ve been working drunk, here are several treatment options to consider.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
We offer outpatient treatment programs that allow you to receive treatment while still fulfilling work obligations. These programs provide therapy, group counseling, and medication management in a way that accommodates your work schedule. Sessions are held at times that are convenient for working individuals, making it easier to balance recovery with job responsibilities.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
For those who need more structured support, our intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides a higher level of care without requiring you to leave your job. The IOP offers several hours of therapy and counseling multiple times per week, helping you work through your addiction while maintaining employment. This option is ideal for individuals who need more frequent support but cannot commit to a residential program.
Sober Living
Sober living homes offer a safe, structured environment for individuals transitioning out of rehab and back into their daily lives. These homes provide a substance-free space where residents can focus on maintaining sobriety while gradually taking on everyday responsibilities, such as returning to work. Living in a sober environment helps reinforce accountability, as individuals are surrounded by others committed to their recovery. The support and structure offered by sober living can be key to preventing relapse and building a solid foundation for long-term success.
While navigating recovery, the balance between work and sobriety can be challenging, which is why finding the right sober living environment is so important. Although Ocean Ridge does not offer sober living homes directly, we can guide you toward finding a reputable facility that meets your needs. This way, you’ll have the support and stability needed to successfully transition back into your everyday routine while staying committed to your recovery.
Benefits of Working During Recovery
While it might seem challenging, working through recovery has its advantages. Continuing to work during treatment provides a sense of routine, structure, and normalcy that can be essential in keeping your mind focused on your long-term goals. Maintaining employment can also give you a sense of purpose, responsibility, and financial security, which are crucial factors in building self-confidence and preventing relapse.
Financial Stability
Addiction recovery can come with financial burdens, and keeping your job can help ensure you maintain financial stability. Having a steady income relieves some stress associated with medical costs and personal expenses, which might otherwise contribute to a relapse.
A Supportive Work Environment
Many employers are open to supporting employees through recovery. Staying connected to work can foster accountability and allow for a support system that goes beyond friends and family. The more people you have rooting for your success, the stronger your support network becomes.
A Focus on Goals and Productivity
Work provides structure and encourages goal setting. Even if you’re in recovery, setting work-related goals and focusing on your tasks can give you a sense of accomplishment. Each successful day at work becomes a stepping stone to a stronger and healthier future.
Start Your Journey By Getting Help Today
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
How to Transition Back to Work After Taking Time Off
If you’ve taken time off to focus on your recovery, transitioning back to work can feel overwhelming. However, with the right preparation and support, you can successfully reintegrate into your job while maintaining your sobriety.
Prepare for Reentry
Start by easing back into your work routine. You can consider a phased return, where you start with fewer hours or responsibilities and gradually build back up to your full-time role. Communicate openly with your employer about any accommodations you may need, such as flexible working hours or continued outpatient treatment.
Set Boundaries
It’s important to set clear boundaries with coworkers and supervisors. If you’re in recovery, you may need to avoid situations that could trigger cravings or put you in uncomfortable positions, such as work events that involve alcohol or drugs. Let your colleagues know that you’re focused on your health and kindly ask for their support.
Continue Therapy and Support
Transitioning back to work doesn’t mean the recovery process is over. Make sure to continue attending therapy sessions, support groups, or meetings with your sponsor. Ocean Ridge’s outpatient programs are designed to provide ongoing care as you return to your daily life.
Next Steps
Going to work sober when struggling with addiction may feel impossible, but with the right support, it’s achievable. At Ocean Ridge, we provide a variety of options for rehab for professionals, including detox and residential programs. Whether you continue working throughout your recovery or take a break to focus on your health, there is always a way to balance sobriety with employment. You don’t have to do this alone—reach out to the team at Ocean Ridge today and take the first step toward a sober, healthier life while maintaining your career.
Start Your Journey By Getting Help Today
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
FAQs About Addiction and Work
Can I get fired for seeking treatment for addiction while employed?
Many people worry about losing their job when seeking treatment for addiction. However, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides certain protections that allow you to take time off for medical reasons, including addiction treatment, without the fear of losing your job. It’s also important to check if your company has policies in place to support employees through recovery.
Can I get fired for being drunk at work?
Yes, you can be fired for being drunk at work, especially if your workplace has strict policies against alcohol use. Being intoxicated on the job can impair your performance, pose safety risks, and violate company policy, which may lead to disciplinary actions or termination. Some employers may also offer support through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help you seek treatment for alcohol misuse before termination.
Is it legal to go to work high?
No, it’s generally not legal to go to work high, even in states where recreational marijuana use is permitted. Employers typically have the right to enforce drug-free workplace policies, and being under the influence of drugs at work can lead to disciplinary actions or termination. Additionally, safety-sensitive jobs, such as those involving heavy machinery, may have stricter rules to prevent impairment on the job.
How do I manage cravings or triggers while at work?
Managing cravings or triggers in the workplace can be challenging, but there are strategies to help. You can use stress management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or taking short breaks to step away when you feel overwhelmed. It’s also helpful to have a trusted colleague or support group you can reach out to when needed.
Can I start treatment while still working full-time?
Yes, you can begin treatment while continuing to work full-time, especially if you opt for an outpatient program that offers flexible scheduling. Many treatment centers, like Ocean Ridge, tailor their programs to fit around your work schedule, making it possible to prioritize both your recovery and your job.
What should I tell my coworkers about my absence if I take time off for treatment?
You’re not obligated to share details about your personal health with your coworkers. If you take time off for addiction treatment, you can explain your absence in general terms, such as taking time off for a medical issue. It’s up to you how much information you feel comfortable sharing.
How long does it take to transition back to work after treatment?
The length of time it takes to transition back to work after treatment can vary depending on your recovery progress and the type of treatment you undergo. Some people may return to work part-time initially and gradually increase their hours, while others may feel ready to return full-time after completing their treatment program.
Brought to you by the Ocean Ridge Team in San Clemente, blending professional expertise with the healing benefits of coastal living.
