Working While Recovering From Opioid Use Disorder

Many people who struggle with opioid addiction disorder also have responsibilities to juggle. But, of course, your health and recovery must come first. Without the safety of sobriety, many things, like your income, home, and finances, may be in jeopardy. Medication-Assisted Treatment can help you begin the recovery journey. It's considered to not only be safe and effective, but the FDA considers it the "gold standard" for addiction treatment of opioids.

Opioid Addiction Recovery And Your Career

Many people who work hard in their careers suffer from a substance use disorder. Getting sober is hard, but reclaiming your lifestyle from addiction is vital. You can’t take care of anyone if you can’t take care of yourself. This is why many people struggle with the idea of inpatient treatment. Life obligations are still important, especially paying off debts and taking care of children and other dependents.

Medication-Assisted Treatment, which includes drugs that help ease the discomfort of withdrawal, is a tool that can help you begin to build balance in your life. Alongside medication that helps prevent cravings, you can work with a therapist and/or attend peer 12-step groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a great way to begin to build a new life. New support networks, friends, and coping skills can help you build a solid foundation in recovery.

Recovering While Working

Many people do not have access to months off for treatment and recovery. They need an income or to be able to fulfill responsibilities at home. This can feel highly stressful if you attempt to get sober independently. This is why a treatment program can help guide you through the process. Outpatient visits and telehealth have shown to be effective treatment modes for opioids.

Working while getting sober is possible. Medication-Assisted Treatment can be done discreetly, and telehealth is available for people who live far from treatment centers. You may still choose to take a few days off from work when you first get sober. Your employer is not allowed to discriminate against you and must help accommodate your needs. However, you may feel uncomfortable disclosing medical information to employers.

People who go to long-term treatment programs often utilize FMLA, taking off several months unpaid. Some people can’t sacrifice this amount of time of time and money. This means carving out an alternative path to staying substance-free in the longer term.

Getting And Staying Substance-Free

Learning about your addiction is one of the essential parts of recovery. Therapy, treatment, and peer support groups can help you learn from others' experiences. Opioid use disorder has many symptoms that can be overwhelming, even with the use of medication to control most cravings. This is why working closely with treatment professionals can help you with your journey as you get started.

Learning your triggers, beginning to trust others again, and recovering your sense of self will happen over time. People who use MAT to assist their recovery are usually on their medications for at least a year. Like any medication, the drug's dosage and schedule are up to the patient and doctor.

Learn More About MAT Options in North Carolina

If you or somebody you love need help with opioid use disorder, we’re here to serve you throughout North Carolina. We can help you come up with a recovery plan. Give us a call at 910-295-7246 to learn more about your options.