Working in the medical field can be incredibly stressful. Though it may sound counterintuitive, doctors and nurses have one of the highest rates of addictions of any workforce. Aside from the high-stress environment, people in the medical field are especially vulnerable to addiction due to increased access to prescription drugs and a decreased tendency to seek treatment for substance abuse. The good news is that medical professionals tend to exhibit a high rate of recovery once they do decide to enter a treatment program. By dismantling the stigma associated with addiction, we can remove the shame and improve long-term outcomes for addicted medical professionals. Medical professionals with addictions may experience a variety of personal and professional hardships. Doctors and nurses can use their positions to gain access to powerful opioids, and those with addictions may volunteer often to administer narcotics to patients. Additionally, behavior in the workplace such as falling asleep on the job or increased agitation may point to addiction. This can lead to poor job performance, which in the case of medical professionals, can be life-threatening for their patients. Continuous absence or errors in the workplace can also lead to job loss and frequent job changes. As a result, these individuals may begin to experience serious financial difficulties and family issues. People who choose to work in the medical field tend to be intelligent and hard-working. They are deeply committed to their careers and the people they serve and typically approach their jobs with good and honest intentions. For this reason, medical professionals often have a hard time admitting that they have an addiction, and coming to terms with the ways in which they are failing their families, coworkers, patients, and themselves. By seeking quality treatment as soon as possible, these individuals can give themselves the best chance of lasting recovery, and return to the noble work they were meant to do.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.