Despite a common belief to the contrary (except for some TV dramas), substance abuse affects professionals in a wide variety of industries, and in some cases especially so. Busy professionals are constantly focused on keeping up with the demands of their careers while trying to maintain a work/life balance. This often leads to chronic stress, a major factor contributing to alcohol and drug addiction. Read on to learn more about the impact and rehab for professionals.
Understanding the Impact of Addiction in a Professional Setting
Some of the professions we trust the most such as health care providers (doctors, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers) lawyers, pilots, executives and first responders (paramedics, police, fire) are at high risk of developing addictions. In fact some studies say that 70% of those with alcohol or drug use continue to maintain employment as they are able to remain “functioning”.
But addiction costs US businesses and organizations about $81 billion annually in lost profits. This is due to [1]:
- Productivity losses
- High turnover rates
- Theft in the workplace
- Increased absenteeism
- Use of sick time
- Decreases in quality of work
And there is a significant impact on organizational culture, morale motivation and trust.
Not to mention the most important cost of all: the mental and physical health of these professionals and the impact of addiction on their families.
But there is hope. Treatment for addiction in, or facilitated by, the workplace has been shown to be successful in improving employees functioning and bringing numerous productivity gains as well, upon their return from treatment.
Drug Addiction Crisis in the Labor World
A study by SAMHSA showed that among full-time workers with a substance use disorder in the past year, 60.3% had an alcohol use disorder, 24.1% had an illicit drug use disorder and 15.6% had both. Estimates indicated that 70% of Americans who use illegal drugs are currently employed.
Some of the main professions with the highest levels of substance abuse include [2]:
- Doctors and Healthcare professionals
- Lawyers and legal professionals
- Management
- Sales professionals
- Police officers
- Firefighters
- Military
Some of the problems related to substance abuse include:
- Distraction and inattention
- Poor decision-making
- Lateness or sleeping at work
- Inefficiency, lethargy, disinterest
- Interpersonal issues
- Poor staff morale
- High staff turnover
- Theft or illegal activities
- Disciplinary hearings
- Training costs for new staff
What Makes Professionals Rehab Special?
In their roles, professionals face unique challenges and pressures as they confront substance use issues. This requires specialized treatment that takes into consideration their careers, public reputations, families and social status.
Professionals looking for recovery have several challenges, stigma and reputational damage being at the top of this list. As well, they have demanding jobs and are challenged to create time for treatment. In addition, they may have special medical requirements.
Many professionals who successfully overcome their issues, which may also include co-occurring mental health challenges, return to their professions renewed with greater energy, a much better sense of well-being and greater purpose. And many become more motivated, goal-oriented and driven to perform well both at work and at home.
Key characteristics of rehab for professionals include:
- Secrecy and confidence
- Customized therapies which focus on certain work-related stressors
- Support from networks of other professionals
- Expertise in working with co-occurring disorders
- High quality medical support
- Executive-level facilities and comforts
- First-class amenities
- Healthy cuisine
What Happens During Professionals Rehab?
Welcome
Often, by mutual arrangement, a limo with a senior therapist will greet you at the airport or other point of arrival and take you discreetly to the center. You will be greeted by the Executive Director and medical staff and shown to your room. A brief orientation follows.
Assessment
Our medical staff and therapists will conduct an assessment with you to determine the nature of your substance use issues, your physical health and whether you have any co-occurring mental health issues. Based on this, our clinical team can create an individualized program with you, tailored to your specific needs.
Medically Supervised Detox
On stopping to drink or use drugs, you may experience a number of physical and psychological symptoms which can be unpleasant and in some cases dangerous. Under medical supervision you will then begin detox, with medication to assist as needed.
Inpatient Rehab
Given your specific needs, you will begin your personalized rehab program, working closely with our team of therapists and other team members. We cater to the amenities and privacy our clients desire. The facility provides a comfortable setting so you can focus on your recovery without outside distractions. You may also connect with your peers who are going through a similar growth process, providing valuable support and a sense of community.
Therapies
A wide range of therapies is available. By discussion with you, our therapist will determine a recommended treatment program. It may consist of:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Trauma-focused therapies
- Co-occurring Mental Health Issues
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Yoga
- Dance and Movement
- Art therapy
- Relapse Prevention
Aftercare
To support longterm recovery, a personalized care plan will be designed for when you leave the inpatient program. This may include intensive outpatient services and peer support..
Is It Confidential? Will I Get a File for Going to Rehab?
Laws protect you against non-consensual disclosure of your personal and health information. This provides peace of mind that your treatment is confidential and your records are kept private.
HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, is a federal law that protects sensitive patient health information from being shared without a patient’s consent or knowledge. To reinforce this law, the US Department of Health and Human Services developed national standards for HIPAA with a privacy rule for all healthcare providers to follow as well as other “covered entities” such as health plans, claims processing centers and billing departments.
Additional protections exist with the Code of Federal Regulations Title 42 Part 2 providing further confidentiality specifically for those with substance use disorders, so as to not deter anyone from seeking treatment. Violation of the federal law and regulations is a crime.
Rehab For Professionals in Los Angeles
If you or a loved one is seeking a way out of substance abuse, private, confidential help is just a call away. Reach out to our Admissions team at The Encino now.
At the Encino Recovery & Detox Center in Los Angeles we don’t just treat addiction. We nurture the spirit, heal the mind and help you and your spouse or partner to regain your life. All in a safe space. Rehab for professionals will help you understand the root of addiction and the role it plays in your relationship.
We provide medically supervised detox. After detoxing, you may enter our residential treatment center. Trained staff are equipped to offer clinical care. They will provide the support, guidance and interventions necessary for you to reach your treatment goals. Participating in residential care greatly enhances your success rate at avoiding relapses.
Sources
[A] Working on addiction in the workplace. Harvard Health Blog. June 30, 2017.
[B] Bush, D. and R. Lipari. 2015. Substance Use and Substance Use Disorder by Industry. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
