Many people wonder if they can get fired for going to rehab. This is a pervasive question, but the answer is sometimes more clear-cut than it may seem. If you’re considering a treatment program, keep reading to learn more about your protections.
FMLA Protection
If you are suffering from a substance use disorder and need treatment, you may wonder how to protect your job during rehab. Fortunately, federal laws are in place to ensure you can receive treatment without fear of losing your job.
A great way to receive the care you require while working is through the Family and Medical Leave Act. It offers employees with severe health conditions up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave annually.
Your employment with your employer must have lasted at least a year to qualify. You must also have at least 1,250 hours of work in the past twelve months. However, you can use more than 12 weeks of unpaid leave.
Your employer must approve or deny your request within five business days. Once you have received certification as a qualified employee, you must enroll in an alcohol addiction treatment program. You can register using websites like https://impactrecoverycenter.net/atlanta/.
Day Treatment
If you need day treatment and getting fired for it is possible, you must know your rights. There are federal laws that protect you from getting fired for going to rehab.
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for employees to get treated for severe health conditions. Employees can also use FMLA to take time off for addiction treatments.
Although employers cannot fire you for taking a leave of absence to get treated for substance abuse, you can be fired for failing to show up for work. You can also be fired for other reasons, such as negligence.
You may want to talk with your employer before you start any treatment. They may be willing to work with you. This can include creating a coverage plan or allowing you to abstain from alcohol or drugs.
Once you’ve completed treatment, you can return to your job. However, if you fail to meet deadlines, your coworkers will notice.
Outpatient Treatment
There are legal protections to keep your job while you go to outpatient treatment. These include the American Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
To protect your job, you must tell your employer about your plans to seek treatment. You must specify how much time you plan to spend in therapy, how long you plan to be away from work, and how you plan to handle your responsibilities while you are away.
A return-to-work agreement can be a great way to maintain accountability. Your return to work agreement will outline the expectations for you and your employer. It may also contain recommendations on how you should approach your job.
Getting a job while you are in outpatient treatment is not impossible. If you feel that your addiction is negatively impacting your ability to perform at work, you can contact your human resources department. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss your recovery and hopes for a better future.
