If you’re battling substance abuse, you’re not alone. Nearly 20 million Americans fight addiction yearly, with the figure rising regularly. From a financial point of view, it costs $740 billion annually, which is scary if you think you’re going to lose your job.
With the introduction of random drug testing tools and facilities in workplaces, as well as contract stipulations saying you must take one, it’s hard to keep your compulsion a secret. The good news is that your labor union can help if you’re a member.
Do Labor Unions Support Drug & Alcohol Treatments?
Yes. This is because workers who turn up to work intoxicated or impaired are hazards, and it’s the union organization’s job to ensure health and safety in the workplace. Therefore, your best chance to keep your job is to seek help from a union member before it’s too late. If you test positive or are suspected by the management, they won’t show you any mercy.
Your union, however, will attempt to guide you through the process so that you get clean and don’t tarnish your future.
What Are Unions’ Policies On Drugs & Alcohol?
Every union is different, which means they don’t follow the same rules. As such, you should ask your union rep for the latest, most up to date advice. As a rule, unions prefer to spot an addiction issue while it’s developing so that they can nip it in the bud and eliminate the risks. Plus, it increases the chances of the substance abuser getting and staying clean.
You will find that workers who choose union-certified rehab programs will receive the following from the course:
- An evaluation and a treatment plan
- Detox and inpatient rehab services
- A plan that helps the individual remain sober in the short and long-term
- Aftercare services
- Return-to-work certification
On top of these benefits, your union could decide to cover the costs of your treatment via their insurance policy. Even if they only cover a proportion of the expense, it means your exposure is less.
Unions also work in partnership with rehab centers. This allows employees to retain their jobs and employers to retain valued workers who they have invested in over the long-term.
How Does Rehab Work?
Rehab is a safe way for you to deal with potentially dangerous issues. If, for example, you’re addicted to alcohol, you need to withdraw from this substance safely without going cold turkey. The same goes for drugs as quitting an addiction at the blink of an eye can often be more harmful.
Rehab centers design medical and non-medical detoxification strategies that give the patent the best chance of success. This includes aftercare work, such as evidence-based therapy and a sober living program.
When Should You Contact Your Union Rep?
These are the telltale signs of substance abuse:
- You’re preoccupied with your substances
- You avoid family gatherings and don’t socialize
- You’re not interested in friends and hobbies due to your addiction
- You experience withdrawal symptoms
- You drug habits leave you broke, and you spend money intended for essentials on drugs
Does this sound like you? Are these signs familiar? If so, please don’t hesitate to contact Evolve Indy now to speak to a qualified and experienced professional.