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Mental Health and Addiction: How Your Job Can Support Your Recovery

Mental Health

Managing both mental health and addiction is no simple task. When you’re navigating a substance use disorder alongside mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, it can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to maintain your career at the same time.

At Ocean Ridge Recovery, we believe that the workplace doesn’t have to be a barrier to recovery—it can actually be part of your support system. With the right accommodations, understanding, and access to treatment programs, your job can help you build stability and long-term success.

Discuss Substance Abuse Treatment with Your Employer

Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Substance Use

Many individuals struggling with substance use are also living with underlying mental health conditions. This is referred to as co-occurring disorders—when a person has both a substance use disorder and a mental illness such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety disorders.

In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that co-occurring conditions are more common than most people realize. While it’s not always clear which came first, drug abuse and mental disorders often feed into each other—creating a cycle that’s hard to break without integrated treatment.

How Your Job Can Support Recovery

You spend a huge portion of your life at work—so it makes sense that your job can influence your health outcomes, for better or worse. Here’s how a supportive employer can help you recover from substance abuse and manage your mental health condition.

1. Flexibility for Treatment Appointments

Whether you’re attending therapy for mood disorders or participating in a substance abuse treatment program, flexible scheduling can make all the difference. Employers who allow adjusted hours or remote work options empower employees to get the care they need.

2. Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Many workplaces offer EAPs, which provide confidential access to counseling, referrals, and crisis support. These programs are often the first step for employees dealing with a substance abuse problem or struggling with mental health.

3. Reduced Stigma and Mental Health Awareness

When employers normalize conversations about mental illness, drug use, and co-occurring substance challenges, employees are more likely to seek help. Offering training or workshops on mental health disorders fosters a culture of understanding—not judgment.

4. Reasonable Accommodations and Leave

If your condition affects your ability to perform job duties, you’re likely entitled to reasonable accommodations under the ADA. That might include time off for treatment programs, a temporary workload adjustment, or workspace modifications to reduce stress.

5. Peer Support and Mentorship

Some companies create peer mentorship opportunities or peer support groups for employees in recovery. Knowing that others have walked a similar path can provide strength and motivation.

Things to Watch Out For

While many companies are supportive, not all are equally equipped to help. Be cautious of policies that:

  • Encourage drug tests without cause or clarity
  • Lack mental health resources or insurance coverage for prescription medications
  • Dismiss concerns about mental health conditions or recovery efforts
  • Promote a culture that minimizes or stigmatizes drug use or alcohol abuse

Recovery Is Possible—And You Don’t Have to Choose Between Healing and Your Job

Whether you’re dealing with co-occurring mental health conditions like PTSD and alcohol abuse, or navigating substance use disorder alongside bipolar disorder, you deserve support—not judgment.

At Ocean Ridge Recovery, we specialize in treating co-occurring disorders with personalized, evidence-based care. We’ll help you manage both your mental health and substance use challenges with compassion, discretion, and strategies that support your goals—including your employment.

Contact Ocean Ridge Recovery today to learn how we can partner with you—and your workplace—to build a foundation for lasting wellness.

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FAQs About Mental Health and Addiction

Can I be fired for using legal or illegal drugs if I’m in recovery?

It depends. While employers may prohibit the use of illegal drugs, those in recovery from drug addiction—including past legal or illegal drugs use—are often protected under laws like the ADA. However, if drug use affects your ability to perform job related duties safely, employers may still take action.

Is drug addiction considered a disability?

Yes, drug addiction can be considered a disability under the ADA if you are no longer actively using illegal drugs and are participating in or have completed treatment. This may entitle you to certain protections and reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

What if my employer says they don’t have to accommodate me because I’m a drug abuser?

While active drug abusers using illegal substances are not protected, individuals in recovery from substance use disorders often are. If you are actively in treatment or recovery, your employer cannot simply dismiss you—unless your drug use creates a direct safety risk or interferes with job related tasks. Blanket statements like “we don’t accommodate drug abusers” are not such a test of lawful employment policy and may be discriminatory.

Can I be denied a job for taking opioids as part of pain management?

If you have a valid prescription and are using medication as part of a pain management plan or to treat an opioid use disorder, you may be protected under the ADA. However, if the medication impairs your ability to safely perform essential functions, an employer can evaluate your fitness for the role.

Are there job protections for people in recovery from opioid use disorder?

Yes. Individuals recovering from opioid use disorder—including those taking medications like Suboxone or Methadone—are often protected from discrimination. Employers must evaluate their ability to do the job related tasks, not just their treatment history.

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