Be Honest, But Don’t Reveal More Than You Need To
Your first instinct may be to hide your addiction history. While this is an option, first consider whether any of your co-workers are aware that you’re in recovery. If so, there’s a good chance that the information will get back to your boss. Hearing about it through workplace gossip instead of directly from you may negatively affect your standing with your employer.
Another good reason to discuss your recovery is if you need your supervisor’s help in dealing with a certain workplace trigger or temptation. In some cases, a minor change to your job requirements may be all you need to overcome the challenge.Once you’ve made the decision to talk to your supervisor, be ready to explain that you’ve had a problem with alcohol, drugs, gambling, or another addiction in the past. If you’ve received treatment, say so. If you’ve been in recovery for a few months or more, mention this as well. Avoid providing details about how and why your addiction started or how long it lasted.
Be Prepared for Questions
When your supervisor learns about your addiction history, he or she may have questions for you. For example:
- When was the last time you used drugs or alcohol or gambled?
- How long were you addicted?
- Were you addicted when you started working here?
- How old were you when you first became addicted?
- Were you ever arrested for buying or selling drugs or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
- Did you undergo treatment for your addiction?
- Did you ever suffer a relapse?
- Did your addiction ever cause you serious money problems, legal issues, or job loss?
Carefully consider how you will answer questions such as these. Try to keep the focus of the discussion on your commitment to staying in recovery and being a good employee. Explain that you’re uncomfortable discussing the details of your past addiction, but that you’ll always be open to questions related to your job performance.
Attitude is Important
Your supervisor may judge your ability to stay in recovery based on how you present yourself when discussing your past. He or she will react best if you keep a positive attitude during the conversation. Your boss may view you as unstable and at risk for relapse if you act nervous or depressed. Being confident, upbeat, and straightforward, on the other hand, will reassure him or her that you’re working hard to keep your addiction behind you.
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