How To Tell My Boss I’m Going To Rehab

Telling your boss or manager that you are planning on attending a rehab program for substance abuse treatment can be a tough conversation to start.

When informing your boss about your decision, it’s also crucial to understand the legal protections provided to you by the federal government as well as by your employer.

Here are some helpful tips to remember when navigating a conversation with your boss about attending an addiction treatment program.

Prep For The Talk

Before discussing your decision with your boss, it is essential to prepare yourself emotionally and mentally. Take some time to reflect on your decision and its importance.

Understand the significance of your choice to begin addiction recovery, recognizing it as a medical necessity that will improve your life, as well as your physical and mental health.

With this confidence, you can feel more empowered when planning to tell your boss about your decision to receive addiction treatment.

If you haven’t already, review your health insurance plan to identify in-network providers to help you feel confident in meeting your healthcare needs.

That said, you are not legally required to disclose the specific nature of your medical condition to your employer. Under FMLA, you generally only need to provide enough information to establish that you have a qualifying medical condition, not a detailed diagnosis.

Saying you are taking medical leave for a health condition that requires treatment is typically sufficient. Your HR department or a healthcare provider can help you complete the required FMLA paperwork without disclosing more than necessary.

Understand The FMLA And The ADA

Familiarize yourself with the provisions of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to assert your rights confidently during the conversation.

These federal laws are designed to safeguard your rights, protect your job, and prevent discrimination based on your substance use disorder (SUD), which is classified as a covered medical condition.

The FMLA

FMLA leave may only be taken for substance use disorder treatment offered by a healthcare provider, such as a rehab facility.

You may also take FMLA leave to care for a loved one who is receiving medical treatment for substance use disorder.

An employer may not retaliate against an employee for taking FMLA leave. However, FMLA does not protect employees from disciplinary action for violations of a company’s existing policies, such as policies prohibiting being under the influence at work, that are separate from the leave itself.

If you have concerns about your specific situation, consulting with an employment attorney before disclosing to your employer is advisable.

If the company’s policy prohibits any employee from using substances, employment may be affected. Taking FMLA leave for a covered family member is protected against adverse employment action.

The ADA

The ADA ensures that people with disabilities, including people with drug or alcohol addictions, have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

It prohibits discrimination against a “qualified person with a disability” in all stages of employment.

A qualified person with a disability includes those with the skills, experience, and education required to adequately perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

The ADA applies to private employers with 15 or more employees and all state and local governments. State non-discrimination laws sometimes apply to private employers with fewer than 15 employees.

It’s important to note that ADA protections generally apply to people who are in recovery from a substance use disorder, not those currently using illegal substances. If you are actively using and haven’t entered treatment yet, ADA protections may be more limited. Speaking with an HR professional or employment attorney can help clarify how these protections apply to your specific situation.

Choose The Right Time And Place

If you can, arrange a private and confidential meeting with your boss, which is ideal when discussing a medical matter, such as attending a substance use disorder treatment center.

Select a timeframe that allows for a detailed explanation of your situation and allows your boss to interact without outside interruptions.

Finally, explain your commitment to overcoming your addiction, highlighting how getting addiction treatment aligns with your desire to continue working as your best self.

Expect questions or concerns from your boss, and address them proactively and patiently.

If your employer responds negatively or threatens your job in response to your disclosure, document the conversation in writing as soon as possible. Take down the dates, what was said, and who was present.

You may have grounds for a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) if you believe you’ve experienced discrimination based on your substance use disorder.

Check For EAP Availability

In addition, you can enhance your support system by checking with your employer about available employee assistance programs (EAPs).

An EAP is a workplace-based initiative that provides employees with a range of support services to address personal issues that may affect their well-being, job performance, and overall mental and emotional health.

EAPs are typically offered by employers as part of their employee benefits package. If available with your employer, these can provide invaluable resources for those seeking help during the addiction recovery process.

Some of these benefits can include confidential counseling sessions, referral services for outpatient treatment, crisis response, and more.

Ask your boss or human resources representative for more information about EAP benefits.

Discuss The Plan For Your Leave Of Absence

Specify the duration of your absence with your manager, taking note to see if it falls within the FMLA’s 12-week protection plan.

Offer to help delegate your tasks or responsibilities to other employees within your company before you leave.

Your boss may appreciate your efforts to approach your medical leave proactively and your dedication to your overall work performance.

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Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff