Can UPS Fire Me for Needing to Go to Rehabilitation?
Understanding Your Rights, Protections, and Treatment Options as a UPS Employee in Wisconsin
If you’re a UPS employee in Wisconsin and you’re struggling with substance abuse, mental health, or drug addiction, you might be wondering: Can I get fired for going to rehab? It’s a valid question—and one we hear often at Madison Recovery Center. The fear of losing your job keeps many people from getting and completing the treatment they need. But the good news is: in many cases, federal laws protect you.
Your Rights as a UPS Employee
As a member of Teamsters Local 344, you have strong employee rights—and Madison Recovery Center works with UPS employees just like you every day. We also accept Milwaukee Drivers Health insurance and Welfare Trust Fund insurance plans, which means your care may already be covered.
More importantly, you’re likely protected under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These federal laws say that certain employees can take unpaid leave for medical reasons—including attending rehab for addiction and mental health conditions—without being fired or discriminated against.
What FMLA Means for You
The Family and Medical Leave Act gives eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave each year to handle serious health conditions, including rehab for drug addiction, mental health concerns, or both. During FMLA leave, your employer is required to keep your job open and maintain your health benefits.
So if you’re worried about whether you’ll be let go for getting help, remember: FMLA regulations exist specifically to protect workers from being punished for choosing their health.
To qualify, you must:
Have worked for UPS for at least 12 months
Work at a location where UPS employs at least 50 people within 75 miles
Be seeking treatment for a condition that meets the definition of a serious health concern under FMLA
If you meet these conditions, you’re likely protected under federal law.
How ADA Offers Additional Protection
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) also protects employees struggling with substance abuse or mental health challenges. If your condition “substantially limits” your ability to work, the ADA may require your employer to make reasonable accommodations—like adjusting your schedule for therapy sessions or allowing time off for a structured treatment program.
You also can’t be fired just for having a past addiction. What matters is that you’re choosing to get help.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
At Madison Recovery Center, we offer flexible, effective care options that let you get help while keeping your responsibilities in mind:
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Perfect if you want to stay on the job while receiving care
Sessions 3–5 times per week (daytime or evening)
Includes group therapy, individual counseling, and education focused on coping skills and relapse prevention
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
A higher level of care, ideal if your symptoms are more severe
Structured full-day treatment, Monday–Friday
Still go home each night, no residential care required
Virtual IOP (Telehealth)
HIPAA-compliant sessions over Zoom
Great if you’re working remotely or can’t travel to Madison
Same high-quality care, just more flexible
These services help you focus on your well-being, process your experiences, and develop skills to rebuild your career, reconnect with your family, and improve your life.
What to Expect When You Start Treatment
From your first confidential assessment to your last day of care, we’ll walk you through every step. At Madison Recovery Center, we:
Work with your insurance and help you understand your coverage
Communicate with your organization employer or labor union rep if needed (always confidentially)
Support you emotionally and logistically through every phase of treatment
We understand that seeking rehab as a working adult is different. You have a job, bills, and maybe a child or aging parent to care for. That’s why our team is committed to helping you get better without putting your whole life on hold.
You Don’t Have to Choose Between Your Job and Your Health
Here’s the truth: getting help won’t ruin your job—staying stuck might. The longer you wait, the harder it gets to keep everything together. But with the right support, it’s entirely possible to protect your job, honor your union benefits, and begin real addiction recovery. Let’s find a path forward—together.
Need additional information or ready to talk?
Contact Madison Recovery Center today for a free, confidential assessment. We’ll answer your questions about FMLA, your employee rights, your treatment options, and how we can support you without disrupting your work.
You’ve delivered for everyone else—now let us help deliver the care you deserve.
Recovery Starts Today
Madison Recovery Center is committed to supporting the Madison and surrounding communities with flexible, comprehensive outpatient treatment options for drug rehab. Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone. Reach out for a free, confidential conversation today, and we’ll answer any questions you may have.
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FAQs About Employees Going to Rehab
Are federal employees protected if they need to attend rehab?
Yes. Federal employees are protected under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), just like private-sector workers. These laws protect your right to seek treatment for substance abuse or mental health without losing your job.
Can my job performance be used against me if I seek treatment?
Your job performance can only be addressed in connection to behavior or outcomes at work—not simply because you’re seeking help. If you’re actively working to improve your health through rehab, your employer cannot legally terminate you for choosing recovery.
Do local governments offer protections for people in rehab?
Yes. Many local governments follow federal guidelines and may have additional protections or resources in place for workers who are seeking help for addiction or mental health. You can reach out to your union or HR department for more information.
Is going to rehab a civil rights issue?
Seeking treatment can fall under civil rights protections, especially when covered by laws like the ADA, which protects individuals with qualifying medical conditions—including substance use disorders—from unfair treatment or discrimination at work.
How does Madison Recovery Center support patients through the rehab process?
At Madison Recovery Center, patients receive customized care through our PHP, IOP, or Virtual IOP programs. We provide confidential assessments, evidence-based therapy, and flexible scheduling so clients can begin their recovery without stepping away from their entire life.
Is it discrimination if I’m treated differently after disclosing my need for treatment?
Yes. If your employer treats you unfairly after you disclose your need for treatment, it may be considered discrimination under the ADA or FMLA. These laws are in place to protect you from being punished for seeking health care.
What are some of the valid reasons I can take leave under FMLA?
Under FMLA, you can take job-protected leave for the following reasons: serious medical conditions (including addiction and mental illness), care for a close family member, childbirth or adoption, and certain circumstances related to military service.
How do I determine if I qualify for FMLA?
To determine if you’re eligible for FMLA, you must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months, have worked 1,250 hours over the past year, and be employed at a location where at least 50 people are employed within 75 miles.
What resources are available to help me start treatment?
Madison Recovery Center offers a range of resources, including confidential assessments, help with verifying insurance, and guidance on how to request FMLA leave. Our team walks with you every step of the way to make the process as smooth as possible.
Will going to a treatment facility affect my employment?
No, going to a treatment facility like Madison Recovery Center should not negatively affect your employment if you follow the proper steps through FMLA or ADA protections. In fact, getting help often leads to better long-term stability and productivity at work.
Will my employer regard me differently if I attend rehab?
While some stigma still exists, the law requires your employer to regard you fairly and without bias. As long as you’re complying with job expectations and legal protections, your decision to seek treatment cannot be held against you.
What if I’m in school and working—can I still get help?
Yes. If you’re balancing school, work, and life responsibilities, Madison Recovery Center offers flexible Virtual IOP programs that fit into your schedule. You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to get help—treatment is available now.
