We’ve all heard the saying, “more money, more problems”, and this saying couldn’t be truer when it comes to high earning professionals. It’s safe to say that all of us encounter stress in the workplace, yet executives and senior managers often face much higher levels of stress. High earning professionals often work brutal hours and have extreme demands placed on them. These demands and stressors take a toll on high earning professionals, often in the form of an addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Most people still stereotype individuals with drug or alcohol addictions as disheveled, homeless and unemployed individuals that steal from family and friends. Ironically, the majority of people struggling with addiction do not come close to this stereotype. In fact, addiction does not discriminate at all. Regardless if you are a member of the low-wage workforce or a high-power CEO, you can become a victim of the disease of addiction. In fact, studies show that stress is a major risk factor for substance abuse and addiction. It’s no wonder that high earning professionals turn to substances to cope with the pressures and stress related to their careers.
Why Do High Earning Professionals Avoid Addiction Treatment?
Unfortunately, many high earning professionals do not seek treatment for addiction. The reasons may include denial of their addiction, fear of damaging their career and denial of a problem (since the business is still successful). Many of these professionals are in positions of power, and their assistants and other colleagues will either cover-up their substance use or ignore it for fear of losing their own jobs. Consequently, this may lead high earning professionals to avoid treatment for even longer durations, increasing the chances of negative consequences.
Another obstacle professionals face prior to seeking addiction treatment is fear of losing their position with their current employer. Thankfully, there are laws in place to protect those needing treatment that are concerned about their careers. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal program, which allows employees to take unpaid leave from work for serious medical conditions. Employers must comply with this law and employees are to be reinstated to the same or equivalent position after taking FMLA. Since addiction is recognized as a disease, those seeking treatment for addiction may take time off from work under FMLA. This relieves a lot of worry many professionals face when they’re seeking rehab for professionals.
In any case of addiction, it’s imperative that the individual seeks treatment sooner than later. While some high earning professionals eventually seek addiction treatment on their own, many would benefit from an intervention. This will help the person see how important it is for them to seek treatment, and the ultimate consequences set forth by their family and loved ones, should they refuse to seek treatment. Remember, no one should have to battle the disease of addiction alone. If you, or a loved one is struggling, don’t hesitate to call. We’re available 24/7: [main_phone_number]
