Completing an addiction treatment program is a great accomplishment and something for which you should feel great pride. At the same time, you are probably a bit apprehensive thinking about returning to work, especially if you’re coming back to the same job. You may have many concerns about what to expect. Or, you may be worried about how to talk to your boss and coworkers. This is a big step, but it’s one that you can take one day at a time.
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Transportation Dept. proposes oral fluid testing for drugs
On February 28, 2022, the Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposing to amend the transportation industry drug testing program procedures. Several changes are being considered but the proposed regulation most worth noting would add oral fluid testing to the existing urine drug testing procedures for safety-sensitive workers including commercial truck drivers.
The public was given 30 days to submit comments on this proposal, all due by March 30,
Keep readingUnderstanding the philosophy of the 12-Step Program
Many modern addiction treatment centers follow a strategy known as the 12-step program for their patients, which is intended to provide them with an outlined path for guidance and support. The 12-step program has been a popular set of guidelines for helping individuals with their addiction for almost a century, yet many people do not truly understand what has made it so impactful. The modern reader may see it as an outdated philosophy given that it is filled with religious references,
Keep readingTAP & TARP: Treatment & Anonymous Meetings
TAP and TARP provide assessment, referral, and case management services as well as aftercare planning and meetings to many who suffer from alcohol and drug-related problems. Teamster members and their covered dependents whose medical benefits are provided through Trust Funds contracted with TAP or TARP are eligible for services.
Once someone admits that to having a substance use disorder, many treatment options are available. TAP and TARP counselors can help to determine the best care depending on the level of severity.
Keep readingResilience – A Key to Recovery Success
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and maybe even become happier, smarter, and stronger than you were before. In other words, if you are resilient, you are able to move forward and learn from challenging life circumstances like addiction, trauma, or financial problems.
How well do you stand up to adversity? What is your reaction when times are tough and setbacks occur? Some keep going while others may falter and feel ill-prepared to meet the challenges set before them.
Keep readingCOVID pandemic leads to relapse; causes increased need for alcohol and drug treatment
COVID pandemic leads to relapse; causes increased need for alcohol and drug treatment
One year into the COVID-19 pandemic, changes have occurred for many Americans in their relationship with alcohol and drugs. The pandemic posed unique challenges to those who use legal substances, those who also use illegal substances and those in recovery who endeavor not to use alcohol and other mind-altering drugs at all.
The ongoing stress, isolation, and uncertainty of COVID-19 have led to increased demand for mental health services across the United States for conditions like anxiety and depression.
Keep readingWelcome the year with a resolution of self-care
2020 is behind us and it is time to look forward with hope for the future. All the gifts have been unwrapped, the lights have come down (for most of us), the trees are gone out and the bills are coming in.
The new year is a time to reflect and to set new goals and make new resolutions for the upcoming year. For those in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction, this can be a difficult time of year and,
Keep readingStaying Sober and Sane During COVID
Staying sober can be a daunting task, one that is best addressed through a strong support network.
For those who are in early recovery, long-term recovery, and even people who do not have a substance abuse problem, the COVID epidemic has affected almost every aspect of our daily lives. For almost all of us, it has increased our stress levels and required adjustments.
To support recovery from substance abuse during these unprecedented times,
Keep readingStay connected during social distancing
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone, including people with substance abuse disorders and other mental health issues. Symptoms of anxiety and depression may worsen during this time. This can be a very difficult time for people in recovery from addiction.
Addiction is often referred to as a disease of isolation because it impacts a person’s ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. Most substance abuse treatment takes place in a social setting such as group therapy.
Keep readingNavigating the Commercial Driver’s License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
For any commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder it would be far better to avoid the need to use the following information. If you have any suspicion that your use of drugs or alcohol might put you in jeopardy of testing positive on a urine or breath test, please know that TAP and TARP are here to help you.
In 2020 the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration did two notable things.
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