The Complete Guide to Southwest Airlines Employees Seeking Drug and Alcohol Rehab
Overcoming an addiction while keeping up with a demanding job at Southwest Airlines? You are not alone, and help is available.
Overview
The following article discusses the key issue of drug and alcohol addiction among employees at Southwest Airlines and further explains resources and support groups that can help them go through their recovery process.
The post seeks to help employees working for Southwest Airlines concerning substance abuse know where to seek help. It refers to the resources that can be of assistance in their recovery.
Historical Context
Formed in 1967 by its founders, Southwest Airlines grew from a small regional player into one of the largest airlines in the United States today. Southwest Airlines is famous for low-budget ticket prices and highly rated customer service. The company currently employs more than 60,000 employees, making it an integral part of the aviation sector. It has also been regarded as having one of the best corporate cultures among major companies.
Relevance Today
The highly charged tempo of life at Southwest Airlines is increasingly a potential cause of stress, particularly at flight crews, ground staff, and customer representatives. Stress, in turn, can result in substance abuse among some workers. The management of these issues plays a key role in sustaining a healthily productive workforce.
Most of the time, increasing substance abuse is associated with a high-stress working environment. At Southwest Airlines, the focus on safety, efficiency, and meeting customer demands becomes overbearing. Most employees have to work through irregular hours, extended shifts, and are under pressure to keep the standards to the highest levels, consequently leading to physical and mental exhaustion. It has been found that employees working in highly demanding occupations become extremely disposed towards taking drugs or alcohol as an escape.
Identifying the Need for Rehab
Rehabilitation would be in order when one realizes the need to seek help. Some signs include; when one neglects responsibilities, uses substances during stress, and also withdrawal symptoms.
For example, a Southwest Airlines employee can take up drinking right after work to ease the stress of a bad day or even drugs that help them stay awake throughout long flights or shifts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, one of the best things that can happen is the early detection of signs of addiction in order to allow oneself to get help from professionals.
Researched Resources for Southwest Airlines Employees
Recovery Resources / Service Options: Southwest Airlines has many resources and services available to employees struggling with substance abuse. Many times, knowing where to find help is the first step on the road to recovery. One option for employees is Brazos Recovery.
The Employee Assistance Programs offer the employees confidential support, which allows for counseling and referral services to those with substance abuse issues. Several firms have already established proper EAPs, including the company Southwest Airlines. Such a policy has helped these firms to boast better mental health and productivity among their employees.
Tips and Safeguards
Tip 1: Make Full Use of Available Programs
The employee can make use of the EAP available in Southwest Airlines, such as Brazos Recovery, and other support services that can offer counseling in private and various forms of assistance.
Tip 2: Coworkers Are Good Allies
Share your problem with sympathetic colleagues or supervisors who would be understanding and supportive during your struggle to recover.
Tip 3: Balance Work and Personal Life
Establish limits in your life so that you can have enough hours to relax and take care of your personal life outside of your work time.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Denial
Ignoring early warning signs will develop into an abuse problem that will be more difficult and take longer to overcome and treat.
Solution 1: Early Problem Identification
Recognize the problem and get help as soon as possible.
Mistake 2: Not Making Use of Resources
Too many workers don’t avail themselves of the resources at their disposal.
Solution 2: Learn What Resources Are at Your Disposal
Know Southwest Airlines’ EAP, as well as other valuable programs.
Future Trends and Forecast
With businesses continuing to learn how important mental and physical health is for its employees, further growth is expected into other areas such as support services related to mental health and substance abuse. This will probably entail more robust systems of employee support, rehabilitation programs that meet particular needs, and increased access to resources on mental health.
Conclusion
Taking substance abuse amongst employees seriously safeguards a healthy and productive workforce. Reaching out for help early and using the resources that are available can make all the difference.
If you or someone you know has a problem with substance abuse and you need help, don’t hesitate. Resources like Southwest Airlines’ EAP and resources at Brazos Recovery can help you.
It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to seek help. A first step toward recovery can be the start of years of health and happiness.
Medically Reviewed: September 25, 2019
All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.