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June 26th, 2025

First Steps Forward: Detox and Early Recovery for Union Members

Understanding the Role of Detox in Addiction Recovery

When you’re working long hours on the job site or the production line, the last thing you want is for addiction to threaten your health, reputation, or job security. But the truth is, alcohol or substance use can sneak up on anyone—especially in high-stress, high-labor environments.

Detox is the medically supervised process of clearing substances from the body. It’s the first and most essential stage of recovery—not a full cure, but the foundation you build everything else on.

At Union Rehab, we provide union-safe detox programs designed to support your recovery while protecting your rights and confidentiality.

Why Detox Matters for Union Members

Many union workers delay treatment out of fear:

  • Will my employer find out?

  • Will I lose my benefits or pension?

  • Will this hurt my union standing?

Here’s what you should know:

  • You are protected by labor laws and union contracts. Under the ADA and FMLA, you may be entitled to job-protected leave for addiction treatment.

  • Your union likely has resources to support your recovery. This includes Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health coverage, and coordination with your benefits.

  • The sooner you act, the safer you stay—on the job and at home. Addiction can escalate quickly and silently. Detox allows you to regain physical control and clarity, before it affects your safety or livelihood.

What to Expect During Medical Detox

At Union Rehab, detox is:

  • Safe: You’re monitored 24/7 by licensed medical staff

  • Private: We respect your confidentiality completely

  • Tailored: We consider your work type, health history, and union benefit eligibility

  • Supportive: From day one, you’ll work with addiction counselors, nurses, and peer recovery specialists who understand union culture

Services during detox include:

  • Medical stabilization to ease withdrawal symptoms

  • Evaluation for co-occurring mental health concerns

  • Nutritional, hydration, and rest support

  • Emotional support and education about next steps

Typical detox durations:

  • Alcohol: 3–7 days

  • Opioids: 5–10 days

  • Benzodiazepines: May require longer tapering under supervision

How We Work With Your Union & Employer

Our team has extensive experience working with:

  • Local and national trade unions (IBEW, UA, Teamsters, etc.)

  • EAPs that provide short-term counseling and referrals

  • Human Resource and Safety Officers to coordinate medical leave and return-to-work plans

  • Occupational health services if drug testing, documentation, or restrictions are required

Everything is handled discreetly and professionally. You stay in control of what is shared and when. Our goal is to support your healing and return you to the workforce healthy, safe, and empowered.

What Comes After Detox?

Detox is just step one. Depending on your needs and your union benefits, we’ll help you plan for:

  • Residential treatment at partner facilities like Baja Rehab

  • Outpatient programs (IOP or PHP) near your home or worksite

  • Continuing therapy or group support on your off days or after hours

  • Family support and education, including spouse and dependent resources

Your treatment plan will reflect:

  • The intensity of your addiction

  • Your union leave and return-to-work timeline

  • The pace that makes sense for you and your family

Real Recovery for Real Working People

Whether you’re on the road, in the shop, or on the line, you deserve access to quality recovery care without risking your future. Union Rehab exists for that exact reason—to serve hardworking union members like you with dignity, expertise, and cultural understanding.

We know what you’re up against—and we’ve got your back.

Continue the Journey

📍 Not sure how this all starts? Learn how loved ones stage compassionate, structured interventions: Hope Interventions →
🏕️ Wondering what full recovery looks like? Discover holistic healing and life transformation: Baja Rehab →