Labor unions tend to be established groups of workers who all work in a common industry. This can include auto workers and those who work in construction and welding as well. When you work in a union, you will be able to take advantage of many perks, including:
- Better health benefits
- More vacation time
- A safer working environment
- Better wages
- Seniority perks
- Fair hiring practices
Providing any kind of addiction treatment coincides with health benefits, fair hiring, and safer work environments. The health benefits that you get will mean that you should be covered if you ever need to attend a recovery center. You may even be able to take advantage of a longer duration of treatment, should you need more than 30 days. If you are interested in attending rehab and you are a union worker then the process is easier when compared to those who work in a non-union workplace because your perks should help you to cover the cost while also protecting your position.
The Workplace’s Role
77% of those who are addicted to a substance, are employed. So many businesses have Employee Assistance Programs. These are designed to aid you in the department of addiction treatment. You may be able to take advantage of things like:
- Outpatient programs
- Time off
- Financial assistance
- Group therapy
- Urine testing
Discriminating against Addiction
Federal law protects those who are suffering from addiction. Some states even have rules in place that stop them from firing an employee who is addicted, without offering them some form of treatment. The ADA act stops an employer from discriminating against a prospective hire who has had some kind of addiction issue in the past as well. The Family Leave Act will provide time off for those who need to go to an inpatient treatment center. Under this act, your employer is not mandated to keep you in the same position or pay you at the same rate as before you left but they do have to give you a job when you return.
There are, of course, some instances where you should not go back to your job after being away. This includes:
- You used to be under the influence at work
- People who you work with are enablers
- Your place of work tolerated substance abuse
- Your abuse was part of the working environment- e.g. an alcoholic working at a bar
- Your environment is triggering
- Work-related stress contributed to your condition.
Recovery From Addiction
Even though you need money to pay your bills, you have to know that your mental health should always come first. Some people recover and go on to become advocates for others, by working in admissions, outreach, or even as a substance abuse counselor. If you need some help with your addiction, then simply contact us today. When you do, you can then count on us to work with you to make sure that you are given the treatment you need, when you need it. You can contact us by phone or by email at any time.
