Ocean Ridge Treatment & Recovery
Detox, Treatment, Recovery
In today’s evolving workplace, human resources management plays a critical role in supporting employees facing personal and professional challenges—including employee substance abuse. Whether it’s identifying signs of drug use, offering confidential help, or guiding someone through the process of taking medical leave for treatment, the human resources department can serve as both a resource and an advocate.
At Ocean Ridge Recovery, we collaborate closely with human resources teams to make the transition into treatment programs smoother for both the employee and the employer. Below, we’ll talk about the responsibilities, resources, and impact of your HR department in building compassionate, responsive, and recovery-ready workplace environments.
Human resources professionals are often the first line of support when a team member’s well-being begins to affect their job performance or behavior. Substance abuse not only disrupts an individual’s life—it can also affect team dynamics, productivity, and workplace morale.
When managed with empathy, discretion, and structure, the HR department can help employees at your site access life-saving care while preserving their dignity and professional future.
Here are some of the most important HR responsibilities when dealing with employee substance abuse:
One of the most important roles of HR is early identification. While HR professionals are not clinicians, they are often in a position to observe or receive reports about unusual behaviors that may suggest substance use or burnout. These can include frequent absences, missed deadlines, mood swings, declining productivity, or employee’s job performance that suddenly shifts. Recognizing these red flags allows HR to take action before the situation escalates—whether that means a supportive conversation, offering resources, or involving an Employee Assistance Program.
When it comes to drug testing, HR must balance legal requirements, workplace safety, and fairness. This includes ensuring that testing procedures are consistent, non-discriminatory, and compliant with federal, state, and company policies. Additionally, HR must follow guidelines around employee compensation—especially if an employee is placed on leave for drug and alcohol treatment, FMLA, or disability. Missteps in this area can expose the employer to liability, so attention to detail and policy alignment is key.
Employee Assistance Programs are a vital bridge between employees in crisis and the help they need. HR plays a central role in connecting employees with EAP services, which may include short-term counseling, referrals to treatment, family support, and ongoing check-ins. EAPs are confidential and often underutilized; HR can normalize their use by talking about them openly, integrating them into onboarding materials, and ensuring managers know how to make referrals when concerns arise.
HR professionals must be fluent in laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)—both of which protect eligible employees seeking help for substance abuse or mental health conditions. The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals in recovery and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations. FMLA allows for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medically necessary treatment. HR must also stay up to date on changes to federal laws and understand how they interact with drug-free workplace policies.
When an employee takes leave for substance abuse treatment, HR is responsible for guiding the leave process—from coordinating documentation to staying in compliance with leave laws. Upon return, HR should develop a re-entry plan that respects the employee’s health needs and professional goals. This might include flexible hours, modified workloads, or continued support through the EAP. A well-managed return-to-work plan supports both the employee’s recovery and their reintegration into the team.
Maintaining confidentiality is a legal and ethical obligation—especially when dealing with sensitive issues like drug use or substance abuse. Your personal life will not become a subject of discussion at the workplace. HR must secure employment records, limit who has access to information, and avoid sharing details without written consent. At the same time, HR must protect the broader workforce by ensuring that any safety-sensitive positions are filled by individuals who are capable of performing essential functions without risk. It’s a delicate balance of compassion and compliance.
Effective human resources management means working closely with supervisors and department heads to ensure alignment. This includes setting clear expectations around performance, attendance, and conduct—while also building in support systems for employees in addiction recovery. HR can coach managers on how to have respectful, productive conversations and how to respond to performance issues in ways that open doors to help rather than punishment. This partnership helps cultivate a culture of accountability and empathy.
HR isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about people. And often, it’s about giving someone the green light to heal.
The most effective HR departments help cultivate programs and environments that reduce stigma and promote recovery. This starts with education. HR professionals and students of human resources management should consider enrolling in elective courses and required courses that cover:
Equipping HR with this knowledge ensures they can respond to issues with both professionalism and compassion.
At Ocean Ridge, we understand how delicate these situations can be. We work hand-in-hand with HR departments to:
We believe that high-functioning companies prioritize both performance and well-being—and that supporting quality employees through hard times is a win-win for everyone.
Substance abuse can affect anyone—regardless of role, title, or seniority. But with the right support, employees can recover, regain stability, and even come back stronger.
If you’re in human resources, management, or simply care about building a more supportive workplace, know that you’re not alone. Let Ocean Ridge Recovery be your trusted partner in supporting your team—and helping your HR department lead with both structure and heart. If you’re struggling with substance use yourself, know that Ocean Ridge is a safe and effective place to begin your healing journey. We offer Executive and Professionals treatment programs designed for those who need a break from their routine, but who don’t want to compromise their career.
Contact Ocean Ridge Recovery today to learn how we can support your organization, your team, and the employees who need help the most.
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
Effective HR training equips teams with the skills to recognize signs of substance abuse, handle sensitive conversations, and implement supportive policies. With proper training, HR professionals are better prepared to guide workers toward recovery resources and maintain a safe, productive workforce.
There is strong evidence showing that untreated substance abuse leads to reduced productivity, absenteeism, and higher turnover. On the flip side, early intervention and supportive policies can dramatically improve workforce performance and morale.
Strategies include providing confidential access to treatment, integrating mental health support into wellness programs, offering educational seminars, and normalizing conversations about recovery. These efforts help contribute to a culture of openness and trust.
When workers feel safe seeking help, they are more likely to stay engaged, committed, and productive. Supporting recovery can also contribute to lower healthcare costs, stronger team morale, and a more resilient workforce overall.
Yes, any city or public sector employer can adopt HR practices that support employees with substance abuse concerns. Many municipalities already provide employee assistance programs and are expanding efforts to create evidence-based recovery-ready workplaces.
Demonstrating a commitment to employee wellness—including support for substance abuse recovery—can improve recruitment and retention. Candidates are more likely to join and stay with companies that value their well-being and offer resources to navigate personal challenges.
Bobby Nassiri is a seasoned Program Director and Business Development Director with over 12 years of experience in the behavioral health industry. Since earning his CADCII counselor certification in 2017, Bobby has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals through compassionate care and innovative program development. Bobby’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including strategic business growth, program management, and client counseling. His comprehensive approach to behavioral health ensures that every program he directs is both effective and empathetic, catering to the unique needs of each individual client. Outside of his professional endeavors, Bobby enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, practicing Brazilian jiu jitsu, and attending concerts. His diverse interests and commitment to personal well-being reflect his holistic approach to life and work.
So, you’ve decided to go to rehab. You’ve figured out where you want to go. You’ve figured out how to pay for it. You’ve figured out what to do about your job. Everything is falling into place except…
Failing a drug test can be a stressful and life-changing event, especially if it happens at work. Drug tests are often required by employers to maintain a safe and productive work environment. But if you fail, it could lead to consequences that impact your job and future opportunities.
Whether for mental health or drug abuse, seeing recovery is a courageous and important choice. But a lot of workers put off getting help because they’re concerned that it will affect their jobs.
Going to rehab can be a powerful experience. Here, you’re giving yourself the chance to pick up a new set of tools that will allow you to proactively deal with life, addiction, and cravings. At the same time, moving to rehab can be an incredibly lonely experience as you leave friends, family, and your home behind.
Leaving rehab can be daunting. The transition back into everyday life feels overwhelming for many in early recovery. Sober living homes can provide the vital support and structure needed to navigate this challenging yet crucial stage of your journey.
Addiction recovery is a tough journey, and it often takes a unique approach to tackle the physical and mental challenges of substance abuse. One exciting and effective method making waves in addiction recovery: Jiu Jitsu.
At Ocean Ridge, we understand that the demanding schedules, high-stress environments, and physical demands of a job at BNSF Railway can contribute to substance use issues. Our mission is to provide compassionate, effective treatment tailored to the needs of BNSF Railway employees, helping them reclaim their lives from addiction.
At Ocean Ridge, we get it—balancing a high-pressure career while seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Executive Treatment program is here to make things easier, offering top-tier care in a private, confidential setting.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment. That’s why finding a rehab tailored to professionals is crucial.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment.
Now, more than ever, our friends, family, and loved ones need medical help for drug and alcohol abuse.
In fact, in 2020, 40.3 million Americans struggled with a substance use disorder. Our friends, family, and loved ones need help and compassionate care from quality drug and alcohol rehab centers.
The admissions process for Ocean Ridge Treatment and Recovery is quick and convenient. Our Drug Rehab and Alcohol Rehab programs are modern, effective, and based in clinical excellence.
The Georgia Sue house is a gorgeous six-bed facility in Laguna Hills that boasts a warm, upscale environment created to help our clients feel at home during their recovery journey.
The Del Campo House is a six-bed facility in beautiful San Clemente that offers clients both privacy and community. Surrounded by gorgeous natural views, this space provides those seeking help for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders with everything they need to feel relaxed, supported and empowered.
For individuals seeking freedom from substance use, Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offers a free, compassionate and supportive community. With its emphasis on the 12-step framework, NA meetings in Orange County, CA provide recovering addicts with the tools and encouragement they need to achieve and maintain sobriety.
For many, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a vital foundation for recovering from alcohol addiction. With its supportive community, structured program, and proven success, AA provides alcoholics with the tools and encouragement they need to stop drinking and rebuild their lives.
Drug testing is a common practice in many industries to ensure workplace safety, compliance with regulations, and employee productivity. Employers across a variety of sectors often require drug tests during the hiring process, after an accident, or at random intervals to maintain a safe and drug-free work environment.
#300391BP | exp 08/31/2025
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