Addiction and substance use can cause an incredible amount of damage and stress in a person’s life. Often these effects are only made worse when combined with the stress that comes with employment and meeting the responsibilities of work while battling substance abuse.
It is essential that a person seek treatment if they are experiencing any effects or repercussions from substance use that is causing damage to their mental or physical health or preventing them from meeting obligations at work or home. Treatment is not just about managing substance abuse. It also promotes a healthier lifestyle and better mental health.
Many of the tools a person learns during the treatment process will be beneficial in other areas of life. A person will learn how to maintain sobriety, as well as emotional stability, self-awareness, patience, and accountability. The recovery process will also emphasize how important a supportive environment can be and the benefits of social behavior.
If you feel that a substance abuse issue or mental health condition is preventing you from living a healthy life, you should look into treatment options in your area.
Medical professionals often turn to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-5, for diagnosing and evaluating mental health conditions. The DSM-5 also can be used to diagnose substance abuse disorders.
The DSM-5 sets eleven criteria that are considered to be symptoms of substance abuse disorder. Any person who has experienced at least two of the symptoms within the last year may be suffering from a substance abuse disorder. Medical professionals can also use the DSM-5 to evaluate the severity of the disorder. Two or three symptoms suggest a mild condition, four or five suggest a moderate condition, and six or more symptoms suggest a person suffering from a severe substance abuse disorder.
The eleven criteria for substance abuse disorder according to the DSM-5 are
It may often be challenging to maintain work when entering a treatment program. Many people may feel that their job might not let them leave for an extended period and return after treatment in the same role. This can be difficult because while work is important, recovery and personal health should always be prioritized.
For people with a manageable substance issue, outpatient treatment may be beneficial. Outpatient treatment provides people with a more flexible treatment plan so a person can take positive steps towards recovery while also maintaining their responsibilities at work and home. Facilities may run their outpatient programs differently, but most plans will require a person to attend virtual or in-person sessions and therapy a few times a week. It is essential to understand that outpatient treatment is still something that requires dedication and effort.
For people with moderate or severe substance use issues, inpatient treatment will always be the recommended option. Inpatient treatment requires that a person lives in the treatment facility for a limited time. During their time in treatment, they will attend therapy or group meetings every day and learn more about managing their condition. Inpatient treatment is the most effective option for anyone suffering from addiction, although many may feel unable to take part due to work or financial reasons. The average inpatient treatment program lasts approximately one month. Outpatient treatment could begin afterward for those who feel they need additional support.
When taking part in inpatient treatment, it will be near impossible for a person to maintain their responsibilities at work. It is usually the best course of action to discuss this option with your employer and see what options are available. Your mental and physical health should always take priority over everything else.
Addiction treatment can be complex when it comes to a relationship between an employer and an employee. The best thing an employer can do is understand their employee attempting to improve their lives and achieve sobriety. Employers also should recognize that someone facing addiction will often be less effective at the job or reliable. Inpatient treatment may cause an employee to miss weeks or work. Still, employers should be empathetic to the struggle and understand the employee will be a healthier, more productive person after successful treatment.
It is still vital for those unable to maintain employment during treatment to focus on recovery. At Warner Park, we help clients build their resumes during the recovery process and look for new employment opportunities after treatment. A person’s career trajectory and performance can often be negatively impacted due to substance use. We will help you get your career back on track after treatment to achieve a promising, healthy life.
We take the time to understand the personal goals and needs that a person may be seeking so that we can help match them with the best employment opportunities possible. We also offer support with resume building, establishing professional references, and doing whatever it takes to get your career moving in a positive direction.
At Warner Park, helping people through treatment is our primary goal. We believe that this evening programming will allow many people to seek help who may have otherwise felt unable. This program is especially helpful for those whose jobs may make it difficult to find time for treatment, as well as individuals who many feel that their substance use or mental health challenges are mild but fear them becoming more severe over time.
Seeking treatment while maintaining a job can be a challenging process. It may feel difficult to fulfill your obligations at home, work, and in treatment simultaneously. However, it is vital that you put your own mental and physical health above all else. Treatment as a preventive measure can be crucial in avoiding severe mental health challenges in the future. Work doesn’t always stop after you leave work, as self-care can be just as important, if not more so, than anything you accomplish at your job.
Reach out to us today at 866.623.6905 to learn more about possible treatment options in your area.
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