The FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act), a federal law that was implemented in 1993, covers several different areas in the addiction rehab and 'serious illnesses' sector. FMLA helps protect, support, and advocate for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction by ensuring they have a job to come back to when they have completed their time in rehab.
Frequently, individuals struggling with drug or alcohol abuse fail to seek help because they are afraid of losing their job and unsure how they will support themselves and their families once they return home from treatment. The FMLA provides peace of mind and ensures employment stability once the individual has re-entered day-to-day life post-treatment. Having employment to come back to is a massive stress relief for those who know they need help but are unsure of their job security once they have been discharged. FMLA is here to protect those who require short-term assistance.
Through FMLA, qualifying patients may receive up to 12 weeks of leave on an unpaid basis while seeking treatment for their drug or alcohol addiction. Since every employer is different, it's best to speak with your management about individual medical leave parameters. There are various parameters and requirements, such as being employed for a minimum of 12 months, although every employer is different.