Are you or someone you know struggling to balance the demands of work while coping with substance use disorder (SUD)? If so, you’re not alone. Managing employment alongside the challenges of the disorder can be incredibly challenging.
For many working adults facing SUD, maintaining employment is a matter of financial necessity while being a crucial aspect of their recovery journey. Employment provides structure, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment, which can be invaluable in promoting overall well-being. However, the stress and triggers associated with the workplace environment can exacerbate the challenges of managing the disorder.
Advanced countries such as the United States are currently facing a tough battle against SUDs. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 49 million, or 16.6%, of Americans aged 12 years and above were grappling with a substance use disorder in 2022.
Among these, nearly 30 million individuals were dealing with an alcohol use disorder. Roughly 27 million had a drug use disorder, which includes 6 million individuals facing an opioid use disorder. Over 20% of individuals experienced severe symptoms of SUDs. These results indicate an urgent need for medical interventions with adjunctive treatments to help individuals facing such issues.
That’s where coping mechanisms come in. This article will explore a few effective coping mechanisms tailored specifically for working adults dealing with SUDs.
Utilize the Recommended Medications
When dealing with substance use disorder while working, utilizing recommended medications can be a vital aspect of your coping strategy. These medications, prescribed by healthcare professionals, can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing you to focus on your job. By incorporating recommended medications into your treatment plan, you can experience improved stability in your daily life, enhancing your ability to fulfill work obligations.
However, it’s crucial to only use prescribed medicines that are free of any side effects. Recent incidents have highlighted the side effects associated with medications used for SUDs. For instance, Suboxone is an effective medication used for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). TorHoerman Law reported that the use of Suboxone has been linked with poor dental health, such as oral infections, dental injuries, etc.
These health issues are sufficient to overwhelm individuals with emotional and financial challenges. To overcome these challenges, victims have the option to seek professional legal help. With the assistance of attorneys, these victims can file a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit against the drug manufacturer, i.e., Indivior. The legal actions will help the victims receive compensation and spread awareness to protect others from facing similar consequences.
Engage in Transparent Communication With Your Employer
Having an honest conversation with your employer about your SUD can foster a supportive work environment. It’s crucial to initiate open conversations to address any potential impact on your job performance. By sharing your challenges and seeking assistance, you can work together to implement necessary accommodations or support systems.
Be honest about your situation and any necessary accommodations you may require to effectively manage your responsibilities. Building trust through transparent communication can help alleviate stress and facilitate a more understanding work environment.
It’s important to seek professional help if you are dealing with any substance abuse disorders to thrive in your current job. Substance abuse disorders significantly hamper one’s ability to carry out daily activities efficiently. This aspect is particularly relevant in your workplace setting, which demands high focus and efficiency to perform assigned duties.
Research published in PubMed Central revealed that individuals with these disorders are vulnerable to unemployment and job loss. Young adults are at high risk of unemployment after college, even due to alcohol use disorder and other illicit drug use consistently over time. Moreover, the study also revealed that recent marijuana use increased the possibility of job loss by 50%.
Seek Social Support
A study published in ScienceDirect analyzes the role of social support in addressing SUD and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The findings showed that social support reduced symptoms of SUD and PTSD during treatment but not during follow-up. Additionally, individuals with more severe symptoms tend to seek more social support to alleviate their emotional distress.
Embracing social support can be instrumental in navigating SUD while balancing employment. It involves reaching out to trusted individuals for guidance in times of need. Seeking social support is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards managing SUD effectively while maintaining employment. Cultivate relationships with individuals who stand by you during the recovery journey, fostering a positive environment.
Practice Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress can serve as a significant catalyst for drug use, as indicated by a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 73% of teens reported using drugs and alcohol to relieve stress and induce calmness. For about 50% of teens, the motivation for drug misuse is driven by the desire for fun or experimentation. Moreover, 44% of participants admitted to using illicit drugs to forget painful memories or alleviate worries about a problem.
Additionally, 40% resorted to drug use to cope with depression or anxiety. Participants were allowed to choose more than one response, leading to overall percentages exceeding 100%. These findings could also be applicable to working adults who face acute stress due to professional commitments, financial conditions, family stress, and other factors. The findings also suggest a high need to implement stress reduction techniques to better manage the disorder.
Participating in consistent physical activity like brisk walks or yoga aids in stress relief and relaxation. Implementing deep breathing techniques assists in soothing the mind and diminishing sensations of anxiety or being overwhelmed.
Integrate mindfulness meditation into your daily schedule to foster awareness of the present moment and alleviate stress. Allocate brief intervals during your workday for stretching, meditation, or brief relaxation exercises. Additionally, prioritize self-care activities such as getting adequate sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and setting boundaries to protect your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Is the Stress-Coping Model of Addiction?
The stress-coping model of addiction suggests that individuals may turn to substance use as a way to cope with stressors in their lives. Stress triggers physiological responses that can lead to increased cravings for drugs or alcohol. Coping strategies aim to manage stress without resorting to substance use.
What Is the Most Common Defense Mechanism in Addiction?
Denial stands as the most common defense mechanism in addiction. Addicts often deny the severity of their problem. They may rationalize their behavior or minimize the consequences of their substance use. Denial hinders acknowledgment of the need for help.
What Is the Difference Between Addiction and Substance Use Disorder?
Addiction refers to a compulsive pattern of substance use despite negative consequences. SUD is a clinical diagnosis characterized by impaired control over substance use. While addiction is a broader term, SUD is a specific diagnostic term used in clinical settings.
In conclusion, managing SUD while maintaining employment is a challenging journey, but there are practical coping mechanisms available to support working adults. With the right strategies in place, working adults can find balance, fulfillment, and success in both their professional and personal lives.
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