You’re a lawyer who graduated from law school. A year later, you set up your practice and begin amassing clients.
The job becomes more stressful over time. You must wine and dine clients regularly.
Moreover, you’re juggling a variety of legal cases at once. Also, dealing with the concerns and problems of your clients is a stressful ordeal.
You begin drinking heavily after work hours. You also start drinking while on the job and in between breaks.
You realize you have a problem and think about drug and alcohol rehab programs. However, you don’t know where to look. Further, you don’t want to risk your reputation and practice.
What should you do?
Addiction and lawyers can go hand-in-hand due to the stressful nature of the job. Younger lawyers are more likely to contend with drug or alcohol problems than seasoned attorneys.
You may think that alcohol and drug rehab could ruin your law career, but the consequences of doing nothing can be far worse. Also, you don’t have to choose between your career and your sobriety.
This article will show you the best ways to find alcohol and drug rehab programs. Let’s explore.
How Can I Find a Drug and Alcohol Rehab Near Me?
Before choosing the right program, you must know your needs and wants. Rehab centers have various specialties that may cater to your needs.
- Example: You’re a lawyer who has a drinking problem, but you’ve also contended with depression for most of your life. Therefore, find a wellness center that addresses alcohol addiction and mental health problems.
Also, determine if you have any medical conditions that a clinic may address. Consider dual diagnoses, such as a combination of depression and bipolar disorder. Overall, write down any conditions or disorders that you face. From there, contact a wellness center representative to see if the center can address all of your issues.
The best clinics offer a diverse array of programs and treatments, such as:
- Physical therapy and trauma
- 12-step programs
- 12-step alternatives
- Alcohol and substance abuse
- PTSD
- Experimental therapies
A wellness center with multiple programs is the best choice because you may have to enroll in several programs throughout the healing process.
What Should I Say When Talking to a Treatment Professional?
When talking to a professional, talk openly about what you’re going through. Explain the triggers that may cause you to indulge in alcohol or drugs.
- Example: Many attorneys face a great deal of pressure from clients and co-workers to indulge in drinks. If lawyers turn down drinking occasions, they can feel isolated and left out. They may also fear losing clients or vital business relationships.
A consultant can mention programs available that can help you deal with triggers that cause unhealthy behaviors. A rep should be open and honest about the programs available and whether the facility would be a good fit for you.
Types of Programs to Choose From
When you’re speaking with a representative, ask about the nature of the treatment process. You have two types of treatment centers to choose from: inpatient and outpatient care.
Inpatient care involves the patient staying at the facility. Outpatient rehab entails treatment at the patient’s house.
The choice between inpatient and outpatient care depends on the client’s discretion and facility recommendations. However, inpatient care has a higher success rate than outpatient care. Inpatient care allows you to get away from emotional triggers and toxic environments that can cause drug or alcohol issues.
With that, talk to a professional to see if inpatient care or outpatient care is right for you. Moreover, outpatient care is generally an extension of in-treatment programs.
Reputation Concerns
One of the main reasons why lawyers rarely get help is the fear that clients, superiors, or the public may learn about their struggles. You work very hard to earn your degree, and you may not want to risk it all by admitting you need help. Many attorneys fear they could lose their job or license if someone learns about their entry into a sobriety program.
If you feel this way, you stand a higher risk of losing your job or reputation if you don’t seek help. Consider the ramifications of not enrolling in a program, such as job losses, DUIs, or overdoses. If you’re concerned about discretion, ask an associate about confidentiality and privacy policies. Overall, the only person authorized to disclose information to friends or family members should be you.
Crucial Aftercare Measures
As you assess a treatment center, learn about its post-care safety net that can maintain your sobriety after leaving. It’s all too easy for wellness center graduates to relapse and fall back into old habits that make them use or drink again.
Some good post-care options include:
- Therapy
- Short-term and long-term goals
- Clinic recommendations
- Coping mechanisms
Substance and alcohol relapse rates vary from 40 to 60 percent. As a lawyer, you may face a high risk of relapsing due to the ongoing stresses of the job.
Further, you may face peer pressure from clients or co-workers to have a drink at a bar or the office. Your sobriety may also force you to remove yourself from a certain environment, which could make you feel lonely and isolated.
Therefore, find a treatment center that has robust aftercare plans that ensure you remain on a stable course. Also, aftercare programs should be there for you in case you relapse or revert to destructive habits.
What is the First Step in Drug and Alcohol Rehab?
The first step in the drug and alcohol rehab process is acknowledging that you have a problem. From there, you can remedy the problem by contacting a wellness center that can help you. The problem of lawyers and addiction is overlooked in society, and far too many legal professionals suffer through addiction without professional help.
However, you can find the best treatment facility by contacting a wellness associate. Learn about applicable programs that can help you, including aftercare strategies to keep you healthy in the long-run.
Are you a legal professional who is dealing with drug or alcohol addiction? Click here to learn more about rehab facilities for professionals or call us today at [phone]
Get Help Today 1-855-790-9303
