Conquering the Anxiety of Going Back to Work

Feeling anxious or fearful about rejoining the workforce after addiction recovery is completely normal. You might worry about regaining your previous position or feel anxious about maintaining your job if a relapse occurs.

Although these concerns are valid and need addressing, fear often becomes the greatest obstacle to progress. The apprehension about going back to work is no different. Remember, you've put in the hard work during your recovery and possess the tools necessary to step back into your career.

The period spent in treatment likely brought changes to your workplace environment. It might feel unfamiliar, but with proper support and choices, you can ease into this transition more smoothly than anticipated.

How Supportive Employers Approach Recovery

Unlike previous decades, today's workplace has a deeper understanding of managing addiction. Numerous companies have established policies to assist employees undergoing addiction recovery, offering valuable resources and recognizing addiction as the chronic and disabling condition it truly is.

Legislation requires that addiction be treated as a disability needing intervention. Therefore, everyone involved, including employers, should strive to address the root causes rather than just the symptoms.

Some organizations even implement "abstinence reinforcement interventions." Research indicates these initiatives are effective, showcasing how workplace incentive programs can aid those recovering from addiction.

Simplifying the Transition Back to Work

An employee reentering the workforce after addiction recovery will benefit from having a strategic plan for their return. The following three suggestions can facilitate a smoother transition within the work environment:

1. Plan Your Conversations with Coworkers: Conversations with colleagues can be anxiety-inducing for individuals recovering from addiction. Questions like "Where have you been?" are inevitable. To minimize stress, it's wise to prepare your responses in advance. Share your story with coworkers you trust, and with others, choose how much to disclose. The key to a smoother transition is having a prepared response for peers, supervisors, and subordinates.

2. Ensure Open Communication with Your Employer: If you established good communication when leaving for treatment, it serves as a solid foundation for your return. If not, now is the time to start anew. Ensure that you and your employers have clear and realistic expectations regarding your duties and schedule. Document these details with your HR department, including provisions for post-treatment appointments, therapy, and support group meetings. Open dialogue with your employer is crucial for maintaining a positive work relationship.

3. Engage with a Workplace Support Group: Many large companies host in-house support groups for employees. These groups may include coworkers eager to help you transition back to work and peers who have faced similar challenges. You may also find superiors in these groups interested in learning how to best facilitate employee reintegration.

Facilitating the Transition Beyond the Workplace

Several actions outside the work environment can aid in easing your return to work. Research suggests that a comprehensive rehabilitative approach, encompassing biological, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual aspects, proves more effective for those reentering the workforce.

The four tips below align with your aftercare treatment plan agreed upon with your therapists.

1. Remain Consistent with Therapy: Therapy plays a crucial role in recovery. Maintain a relationship with a therapist familiar with your history, including your workplace experiences. Additionally, having a sponsor or accountability partners from a support group is essential throughout your recovery journey.

2. Be Cautious of Burnout: Once adjusted to work, you may channel addiction-like behaviors into overworking. Overexertion can offer relief similar to substance use. While it's important to work diligently, avoid the urge to "prove yourself" excessively to colleagues or supervisors. Prioritize what is healthiest for you.

3. Keep Family Informed: Involve your family in your journey back to work. Share your fears, achievements, and let them provide encouragement. Family members should be aware of your aftercare plan and recovery commitments to offer the support you need.

4. Rebuild Self-Confidence: A strong sense of self-esteem is vital for recovery and professional life. Confidence influences all areas of life, including work. Although boosting self-esteem takes time, the effort is worthwhile. Genuine reassurances will positively reflect in both professional and personal spheres.

Conclusion: Fostering Accountability

Ultimately, reentering the workforce post-addiction treatment requires fostering accountability in all life areas. Just as honesty was essential during treatment, avoiding excuses or denial is crucial for continued recovery. Accountability aligns with responsibility, paving the way for lasting success.

If you or someone you care about seeks further resources or an addiction treatment program, contact a professional at Impact Recovery Center today.