For some, returning to work and coworkers may feel scary and overwhelming, but it’s an important step in your recovery. For example, your employer may require you to remain abstinent from drug or alcohol use and to follow through with treatment recommendations made by your healthcare providers. These expectations play a vital role in your recovery by keeping you accountable.
It’s legal to end employment for any valid reason, but it’s not allowed to fire someone based on their race, gender, age, or disability. Some employers, however, opt for a zero-tolerance policy under these circumstances and immediately suspend and then terminate the employee. Because using, selling, or possessing illegal drugs is a crime, many employers immediately terminate employees who engage in this type of behavior at work. The ADA doesn’t allow employers to make an employment decision based solely on the fact that an employee is an alcoholic. Calls to our general hotline may be answered by private treatment providers. We may be paid a fee for marketing or advertising by organizations that can assist with treating people with substance use disorders.
Can You Get Fired For Going To Rehab – Know The Rights
By clicking “Submit,” you certify that you have provided your legal name and phone number, agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy, and authorize Addictionresource to contact you. You consent to receive SMS notifications and promotions from Addictionresource. According to the law, a person in recovery should be able to find a job bromide detox after attending rehab with little to no difficulty.
For example, an employee who has a few beers at lunch before returning to work operating a forklift might warrant more severe discipline that a group therapy ideas for addiction waitress who has a glass of wine at lunch.
- In 2016, an estimated 19.9 million people aged 18 and above needed substance abuse treatment; only 10.8% of this number (2.1 million) received treatment.
- When dealing with a co-worker’s problem, it’s essential to approach your manager.
- Moreover, maintaining confidentiality in reporting, considering alternative solutions, and reflecting on motives to ensure they align with professional standards can’t be overstated.
- Seeking treatment can allow you to progress in your career without the stress of potential job loss.
As such, individuals suffering from such afflictions have the right to challenge workplace discrimination for honest disclosure of past drug disorders or the need to seek treatment. Yes, you may be fired from your job for going to rehab if addiction interferes with your ability to do your job. Despite protections from the FMLA and ADA, it is also important to note that neither the FMLA or the ADA cover individuals who are currently using drugs. Though there are ways to approach attending rehab that may be protected by law.
Is Alcoholism Covered Under ADA?
If you feel like you need to get someone fired, schedule a meeting with your manager or supervisor. If you can, bring along written evidence of the other person’s wrongdoings, as well as statements from any other coworkers who might feel the same way. Plan what you want to say, and practice reciting them in a calm tone of voice. Request that your complaint remain anonymous, then let your manager deal with the situation from there. Keep reading to learn when it’s appropriate to talk to your boss about firing someone, and when it’s a personal matter that you should try to manage on your own.
Your past employer can disclose information about your job performance and the reasons you were let go to a prospective new employer. However, most employers refrain from sharing such information to avoid any discrimination claims. Many states also consider workers “at will.” This is where a person can be fired for any reason with no warning.
What Are Real-Life Stories Of Going To Rehab And Employment Fears?
Your employer may ask that you complete a return-to-work agreement upon your completion of rehab. A return-to-work agreement is confidential and outlines expectations for both you and your employer. If you tell management about something that leads to someone being fired, it’s the company’s decision.
Emphasize your commitment to sobering up and doing your job to the best of your ability once you complete the treatment program. The ADA law looks to the time a person is actually terminated to determine whether that employee is currently abusing drugs or alcohol. If you seek substance abuse treatment voluntarily, you can’t be fired for going to rehab or be fired for past mistakes due to drug and alcohol use.
What if a Person Loses Their Job While Getting Treatment for an Addiction?
At Discover Recovery, we work with a wide variety of health insurance providers so those in need can get what does being roofied feel like access to the treatment they need. That means you (or your loved one) won’t have to worry about covering the cost of treatment. Instead, all of your energy and focus can be spent where it’s really needed, which is on overcoming addiction.



















