Nurses have one of the hardest jobs there is: caring for others in life-threatening situations while juggling long shifts, changing schedules, exposure to illness and chemicals, poor treatment from patients, and more. The high stress that can characterize a nursing career can put nurses at risk for substance use and addiction. 

An article published in 2022 in the Journal of Nursing Regulation described the results of a survey of nurses that assessed alcohol and drug use. It found that in the past year:

• 5.7% of nurses engaged in illicit drug use and 9.9% in misuse of prescription drugs.
• About 19% of those nurses worked in home health or hospice environments
• 15.8% of those nurses worked in nursing homes

What does that mean for you? If you are a nurse struggling with drug and alcohol use, whether it is brought on by the work environment, the stress of daily life, or for other reasons, it is critical that you seek out help. The medical care and mental health support you need can transform your life, allowing you to better manage your well-being at work and at home. 

Signs You Need to Seek Help for Substance Use Disorder 

You know how to help your patients. Now it’s time to help yourself. Take a close look at some of the following signs of substance use disorder and assess yourself as if you were a patient. 

• Intoxication: A person who presents with intoxication of drugs or alcohol in a public setting may be unable to make decisions accurately. In addition, they may seem tired all of the time. Their emotions might be more intense.
• Withdrawal: What happens when the person stops taking the substance? Cravings, agitation, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and mood changes are signs that the body has developed a dependence on the substance.
• Overuse: Relying on the substance to get through a day or a shift is an indication of addiction. A person may also need more and more of the substance to get the desired results.
• Failed attempts to quit: Unsuccessful attempts to stop using or reduce using substances is another clear indication of the need for help.
• Continued use: Continuing to use drugs or alcohol despite suffering from all of the consequences they bring likely indicates an addiction. 

If someone presented to you in a medical setting with the symptoms you have, would you recommend drug and alcohol treatment for them? If so, it’s time to think about your own treatment.

How a Professional Program Changes a Nurse’s Life

Admitting that you need help is a critical first step, and at a professionals’ treatment program, you will find the support and confidentiality you need. At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, our professionals’ program is geared toward the unique obstacles and challenges you face as a nurse.

Our program provides residential treatment and intensive outpatient treatment designed for your specific challenges and needs, including:

• Professional standards concerns
• Healthcare environment factors
• Access to substances
• Stigma surrounding this use
• Going back to work with addiction in your past

You have a great deal on the line, but with our program, you will spend 30 to 90 days getting treatment in a supportive environment where your body, brain, and spirit can heal. For some, the goal is to return to the healthcare industry, while others might decide to take a different path that has fewer triggers for addiction. Whatever your goals, we can help you achieve them.

During our professionals treatment program, you can expect the following:

• Medical and psychiatric oversight
• Weekly individual, group, and family therapy
• 24-hour support
• Individualized treatment plans designed for your needs
• Experiential treatment, including meditation, mindfulness, and yoga
• Comprehensive family plan

Learn More About Our Professionals Program Now

At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we empower you to change your future. With the tools and resources we offer, you can begin to build a stronger and healthier future for yourself. If you are a nurse or another healthcare professional, and you know you need some help and guidance, reach out to our team.  

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