Colleague Supportiveness
It is a fine (yet difficult) line to walk next to a co-worker who clearly has a problem everyone else sees except him or her. There is also a risk of creating a team-based intervention when someone is in crisis. In an ideal world, supportive discussions happen before they get to the point of crisis.
“We both hired on at the same time. He was an amazing co-worker for the longest time. (He) Topped the charts at everything, hard to compete with. Now every time we have sales functions, we worry someone will have to babysit him again. Or worse, he won’t make it through another event without getting canned.” — Fellow Peer
Everyone processes stress differently. The idea that maybe drinking or drugs are adding more stress to your co-worker’s life than they are offsetting is a good starting point. Many companies have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that can help with a substantial number of things—addictions being one of them. Human Resources (HR) departments are best equipped to handle a crisis, but hearing that there is no shame in getting help before that point is the best thing you can do as the co-worker of a person in need.
It's not just about saving their career;
it's about saving their life.
Helping Others Recover, Together
After Treatment
Equally as uncomfortable as addressing a co-worker who needs help and does not know it, is re-addressing the person returning from treatment after a hiatus. “Hey Dude, how was rehab?” does not feel like the best greeting. Realistically, it is the one that comes the most naturally for some. A simple, “I am glad your back,” will be a huge relief. Treatment requires a person to face many behaviors they were less than proud of before their sobriety. Any encouragement you can offer, such as that you simply like this new sober version makes their transition much easier.
Also, understand the effort it takes to maintain their sobriety can be daunting (especially at first). Inviting someone returning from recovery out after work for drinks may require an alternative. New traditions can help old habits stay at rest, so whatever you can do for your coworker to show pride in their achievement will help them. A quiet high-five on their 30-60-90 days can be more meaningful than a birthday dinner ever was. After all, this is a rebirth in which they had to invest a lot to make happen.
We Work With Most Insurance
Stories of Hope
Parkdale gave me the single best gift I was given in life. Not only did the staff all relate to my situation on a basis of related experiences but they also showed compassion for those suffering from this disease along with comforting my family all the same. From reassurance to..
Matt E
Parkdale Center for Professionals assisted me in turning my life around from it’s lowest point. From the staff to the facility my recovery experience was Awesome!! They gave me hope when I had none and taught me the skills necessary to live a productive sober life. I was so influenced..
Robert K
Parkdale saved my husband’s life. They provided me with the family support I needed, provided resources for our child, and build connections that I know I could reach out at anytime I needed, even after his treatment. He has established connections that I know he will use as resources if..
Carrie S
Absolutely saved my life and my career. Alice is the most amazing human I have had the pleasure of knowing.
Holly Haft
Beautiful setting. Excellent staff. Great experience.
Douglas Antonio
Healthcare provider, 29 year old male. Making a decision to go to rehab was a tough one at the time. I was scheduled to visit family in the Caribbean but had relapsed weeks prior and life was becoming impossible. Three days before my flight I reached out for help. I..
Dan Scubaman
Incredible therapists, individualized treatment plans, respected and challenged as an adult approach, structured environment yet given flexibility and freedom unlike other treatment centers, professional and authentic staff, they provide comprehensive medical and psychological treatment in a tranquil bed & breakfast setting.
Scott Christensen
5 stars for everything – staff, facility, program, etc. They understand we are all unique and they mange your rehabilitation program to your specific needs. You get the individualized attention and tools to help you!
Lawrence Anthony
Absolutely gorgeous facility with staff that know how to manage healthcare professionals to a T.
Tom Berger Jr.
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The Parkdale Difference
Each Program is Different
One more suggestion – each treatment program is different, so learn about them. At the Parkdale Center, co-worker conversations are encouraged. We take professional reentry very seriously and seek to work with employers to ensure everyone has the best chance of success. Need advice? We are there for you at (888) 883-8433.
We Work With Most Insurance