You’re not alone
Arin thought she was alone. She had been a VCH employee for a number of years, but she was struggling with an addiction related to a mental health diagnosis. She was missing a lot of work because of it. She felt guilty, ashamed and worst of all helpless. Arin worried that someone at work would find out about her addiction and she would lose her job.
Confidential help and support
Arin’s high sick time was a signal that she needed help. The WorkAbility team (in collaboration with the Employee and Family Assistance Program and Employee Relations) reached out to Arin and helped her access appropriate treatment and monitoring so she could recover and achieve regular attendance at work. Arin realized she was not alone. She got better, returned to work and is continuing to do what makes her happy—helping VCH clients and patients.
How did it happen?
The Attendance & Wellness Promotion (AWP) program monitoring showed that Arin had high sick time. Arin was afraid when she received a letter about her attendance, but this paved the way to identifying the more serious underlying problem and started Arin on the road to recovery. Arin found that with support and monitoring she was able to manage her addiction. It was a breakthrough. The AWP program helps employees achieve regular attendance at work by monitoring attendance and providing access to various support options.
“Recovery has a lot to do with the person’s willingness to accept help, and an employer’s willingness to hold employees accountable for performance while providing support, time and encouragement,” says Chris Back, WorkAbility manager with VCH.
WorkAbility advisors are currently working with over 750 VCH employees who are struggling at work or are getting support so they can return to work.
A team approach to helping you
Vancouver Coastal Health has an “All One Team” multi-professional team that works with employees to help them return to work safely. This approach ensures a safe and timely return to work supported by expert staff.
If you or someone you know is:
- Missing more work than normal
- Worried about misusing alcohol or drugs
- Struggling with depression or anxiety
- Recovering from an injury or prolonged illness
These safe and confidential support options are available any time:
- Talk to a WorkAbility advisor
- Contact the Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for free, confidential short-term counseling services in person, by phone or email. Call EFAP at 604-872-4929 or toll-free: 1-800-505-4929, or email at help@efap.ca
- Talk to a union shop steward.