Approximately $740 billion is spent by the United States on combating drug abuse every year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse report in 2020. With the recent opioid crisis, as well as the problem of drug and alcohol abuse on the rise and an increase in workplace accidents, many companies are expanding their drug testing programs to include random drug tests. Cocaine, marijuana, and other substances commonly used at work can be evaluated at any time during a working day.
Since substance abuse can sometimes be a difficult, dangerous, and taboo topic at work, employees often find it difficult to talk about their struggles with substance use addiction because they are afraid that they will be stigmatized and misunderstood. However, labor unions can help these members get access to drug and alcohol treatment facilities, providing them with all the resources that they need to begin their recovery journey without losing their jobs.
How Labor Unions Support Rehab
Labor unions in the United States are now supporting the use of rehab facilities to help workers struggling with substance abuse disorders. They offer this type of assistance to ensure the safety of their workers. The Transport Workers Union, for example, has supported drug testing and rehabilitation for years because they want their members to be aware of safety risks and perform their jobs effectively. In addition, the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations support drug rehab treatment since it allows workers addicted to drug or alcohol to return to work productively.
Addiction to alcohol and other drugs has reached alarming proportions in the workplace. This issue not only affects people’s productivity but also their health. If you are fighting any type of substance abuse, it will not only negatively impact your job performance, but you could even be fired if you’re caught using illicit drugs while on the clock. Additionally, since chances are high that your company would terminate your employment contract if you tested positive after a random drug test, you should seek help from a union rep for your substance abuse addiction before it’s too late.
Trade Union Rehab Policies
In general, trade unions aim to protect and improve the working conditions of their members by increasing wages and improving how often they can go on breaks. They also seek a shorter work week with higher overtime pay and paid sick leave or vacation days for their members. In addition, they strive to improve the health and well-being of their members by providing healthcare resources.
A key part of their work in protecting workers’ safety, health, and success in the workplace is hiring an addiction counselor to assist members struggling with substance abuse addictions. Many labor unions offer their members health insurance coverage for drugs treatment and rehabilitation. Many unions also work in partnership with rehab centers to ensure that people with substance abuse issues have a fair shot at keeping their job.
Benefits of Going to Rehab
Today, many employees suffer from substance abuse problems. Their addiction can take many forms, including alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications. This addiction can be obvious to others because it is often characterized by unsociable behavior and an inability to control irrational behavior despite the negative consequences of getting written up or fired. Employees who find that they are losing control of their moods and behaviors in the workplace because of their addiction can get help from their labor union representatives.
In a dire situation, a rep will suggest that the employee go to a rehab center because it is a safe and effective way to recover from addiction. Rehabilitation offers many benefits. It provides people with individual and group psychotherapy to help them improve mental and emotional health. However, the most significant benefit of the program is that it enables addicts to get rid of their addictions and start a new life.
When to Contact Your Union Rep
When you suspect you may have an addiction problem, you should contact your union representative as soon as possible. They will be able to help you assess with the help of a drug counselor how far your addiction has progressed and what would be the best course of action.
You should contact your union representative if you experience any of the following:
- If you feel at risk of harming yourself or others at work, or if there is a possibility of substance abuse related negligence on the job site, causing legal complications.
- If your substance abuse problem negatively impacts your relationships with friends, coworkers, or family members
We’re here to listen to your questions and help you get answers. You can reach us by calling 833-820-2922.