By Eva Benoit
If you are a busy professional battling addiction, you might already be aware of how challenging the process can be. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to make this process easier. From finding the right kind of treatment for your needs to learning how to talk to your boss about what you’re going through, seeking help when you’re a busy professional doesn’t have to be overly stressful. Here are three things you can do to improve the process.
Find the Right Treatment
Finding the right treatment can be tricky because there are so many different types from which to choose. For example, holistic treatment focuses on the total person- the body, mind, and soul. Religion based treatment is also available for those who would like to connect their faith with their recovery process. You may also choose from inpatient programs that allow for more long term personalized care, or a day program that allows you the freedom continue with so your daily routine. For more information about various types of recovery treatments, click here.
Be Open
It’s important to be open and honest about what you’re going through and what your needs are, especially when it comes to sharing information with your work supervisor. While you don’t have to give detailed sensitive or even embarrassing information, you can certainly let your supervisor know that you are dealing with a health issue. Sometimes you might have to come to work late or you might need to leave early. There also might come a time when you might have to take a medical leave. (There are laws in place that protect you from discrimination in the workplace and losing your job because you need to take medical leave.) Open conversations about your condition will lay the foundation for potential future conversations about attendance.
Stay on Top of Your Finances
Fighting an addiction can be a lengthy exhausting process, and it can also be damaging to an individual’s finances. It is important to create a financial plan for the future. Having a budget is necessary. Staying on top of your accounts and debts will help you take control. Having a sense of control within one’s life is an important part of recovery. Try not to have to worry about money and recovery at the same time.
Seeking help for an addiction when you have a lot going on in your life can be extremely difficult, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Starting with a good plan will allow you to stay focused and motivated, and it will keep you on track as you navigate sobriety. Finding go-to methods for staying on a healthy path can help boost self-confidence and strengthen your focus as you make recovery a priority. Talk to your support system, friends and family or a counseling group about your decisions in order to have some accountability. Learning how to cope will help make it easier to focus on the recovery process. Be encouraged. You can maintain a professional career and be in recovery at the same time.
Eva Benoit
Life Coach and Author of The 30-Day Plan for Ending Bad Habits and Improving Overall Health (Fall 2018)