Can I Still Work While in Drug Rehab?

So, can you still work while in drug rehab? This may depend on a few factors, such as the severity of your addiction, the type of treatment you need, your health needs, and your workplace’s flexibility. Below, we explore this question in more detail.

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Rehab Options

Treatment programs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some are more intensive. Meanwhile, others offer flexibility to fit around work and daily responsibilities. The best option depends on your unique situation—like how severe the addiction is, how much support you have from family or friends, and what your job allows. It’s all about finding a path to recovery that fits your life—not the other way around.

Two main options exist in the addiction rehab world, which include outpatient rehab and inpatient rehab.

What is Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient rehab allows you to get treatment while still living at home and often continuing to work. These programs usually include therapy, counseling, and support group meetings a few times per week. Many offer evening or weekend sessions to make things even more flexible.

However, there are different levels of outpatient care. Some programs only require a few hours per week. In contrast, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) may require 10–20 hours spread over several days.

This type of treatment works well for people with mild to moderate addiction, especially if they have a supportive home life and steady job. In many cases, employers are open to adjusting work schedules, especially when they see that treatment helps improve focus and reduce missed workdays.

What is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab means living at a treatment center full-time—usually for about 28 days, but sometimes longer. This type of care takes you out of everyday environments and away from triggers, giving you 24/7 support, medical care, and therapy.

Since you stay at the facility, you usually need to take time off work. However, some centers may offer internet access and set times for work-related tasks.

Additionally, many employers support medical leave for rehab, and laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can help protect your job while you’re in treatment—if you qualify (more on this below).

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Outpatient Rehab Options

Outpatient programs give you the structure and support of therapy without requiring you to stay overnight. It’s a flexible middle ground between full-time inpatient care and doing it on your own. 

There are two main options for outpatient rehab:

1. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): PHPs are the most intensive form of outpatient care. They typically involve attending treatment for five to seven days a week, with sessions lasting most of the day—similar to a full-time job. You’ll take part in individual therapy, group sessions, medical monitoring, and sometimes medication management. PHP is often a step-down from inpatient care or a starting point for people who need more structure than traditional outpatient therapy.
2. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): IOPs are less demanding than PHPs but still offer a strong level of support. These programs usually require 10–20 hours per week, spread over several days. Sessions often happen in the evenings or on weekends, making them a good fit for people who work or have other responsibilities—like work.

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Benefits of Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab comes with various benefits, which may include:

• The ability to maintain employment and income while attending rehab.
• Lower costs but with increased flexibility for other obligations or responsibilities.
• Immediate application of skills learned in the real world.
• Continued support from loved ones at home.
• Increased privacy and discretion (since you can go about your regular routine often, limiting who needs to know).

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Know Your Rights

If you’re worried about how getting treatment might affect your job, you’re not alone—and there are laws to help. For example, FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for treatment. You’ll still keep your health insurance and can return to your job afterward.

Meanwhile, the ADA protects people in recovery from discrimination at work. If you're in treatment or have completed rehab, your employer can’t fire or demote you just because of that—and you may be able to request changes like a more flexible schedule.

Your privacy is also protected. Treatment details can’t be shared with your employer without your consent, so you control what they need to know.

Are you ready to pave your way toward recovery? At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), our team is ready to help. Call us at 804-635-3746. Recovery is possible. At FRC, we believe your best days are still ahead of you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I tell my employer I'm in recovery?

This is a personal choice; disclosure isn’t always required, but talking to Human Resources (HR) or using an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can help you access support while keeping things private.

What is the hardest part of rehab?

For many professionals, the hardest part is balancing treatment with work while facing emotional challenges and learning new ways to cope with stress. At FRC, we help guide you through these hurdles, ensuring you have the support you need to overcome them.

Can I get fired for going to rehab?

Generally, you’re protected by law if you seek rehab treatment, but job performance still matters. We recommend talking to your HR department or a legal expert to understand your specific rights further (or to inquire about specific concerns).