Victory Addiction Recovery Center Nursing Professionals Program
We understand that the last few years have been particularly hard on our nursing community. The stresses the rest of the world faced have only been magnified for nurses and we understand the need to provide specific help and support for those who are are facing a substance use disorder.
Victory’s licensed medical and clinical staff provides medical detox, residential treatment, and intensive outpatient treatment. And because of the unique situation of being a healthcare professional, we understand the presence of addiction can add complexity and require the need for specialized treatment.
What is the Professionals Program and How is Does it Help Nurses?
Our Nursing Professionals Program is designed to effectively address the specific needs of our clients. Victory has a multidisciplinary team ready to assist clients in understanding and coping with issues specific to the nursing profession while working on the underlying challenges that will help bring about long-term recovery.
The primary goal of treatment is to educate, support, and provide assistance to clients for a successful transition back to work. Updates on progress will be provided to the referral source and/or licensing board as needed or as preferred. As discharge approaches, a summary and recommendations for continuing care can be provided.
We offer a full spectrum of care for nursing professionals:
- Three-day inpatient evaluation
- Medically-supervised detox
- 30-90 day residential treatment
- Intensive outpatient (IOP)
- Partial hospitalization (PHP)
- Alumni services
Our Nursing Professionals Program Includes:
- Evidence-based therapeutic approaches: CBT, EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, REBT, and motivational interviewing
- Weekly individual, group, and family therapy
- Individualized treatment plans
- 12-Step focused addiction treatment
- Medical and psychiatric oversight
- 24-hour nursing and medical support
- Comprehensive family program
- Spirituality, meditation, mindfulness, and yoga
For info about Victory’s Nursing Professionals Program
call 337-379-7700.
Why are nurses more susceptible to a substance use disorder?
Nurses, like individuals in many high-stress professions, can be more susceptible to substance use disorders for a variety of reasons. It’s important to note that not all nurses are susceptible to substance use disorders, and this vulnerability varies from person to person. Some of the factors that may contribute to nurses’ susceptibility to substance use disorders include:
- High Stress Levels: Nursing can be an emotionally and physically demanding profession, with long hours and exposure to traumatic events. High stress levels can lead some individuals to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.
- Easy Access to Medications: Nurses often have access to medications in healthcare settings, making it easier for them to obtain prescription drugs. This access can increase the risk of prescription drug misuse or addiction.
- Irregular Work Hours: Nursing often involves irregular work hours, including night shifts and extended shifts. This can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue and stress, which can increase susceptibility to substance use.
- Vicarious Trauma: Nurses may experience vicarious trauma by witnessing patients’ suffering and dealing with life-threatening situations. This can lead to emotional distress and, in some cases, contribute to substance use as a way to numb emotions.
- Lack of Mental Health Support: Stigma around mental health issues within the healthcare profession can discourage nurses from seeking help for stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. Self-medication with substances may seem like a more accessible solution.
- Job Insecurity: Concerns about job security and workplace demands can create additional stress for nurses, which may lead some to use substances to cope.
- Previous Trauma or Addiction: Nurses, like anyone else, may have a history of trauma or addiction that makes them more susceptible to substance use disorders.
Helping Nurses Recover From Substance Use Disorders
It’s crucial to emphasize that not all nurses are at risk of substance use disorders, and many are resilient and able to manage the stresses of their profession effectively. Healthcare institutions and professional organizations often have programs and resources in place to support nurses’ well-being, including mental health support, counseling, and employee assistance programs. Early intervention and a supportive work environment can play significant roles in reducing the risk of substance use disorders among nurses.
