Pilots have stressful jobs and must frequently work long hours, which may put them at unique risk for addiction. Pilots may feel a need to hide their addictions due to the potential impact of substance abuse on their careers. Fortunately, there are substance abuse programs designed specifically for pilots. Here are four aspects of wellness that can be addressed in a pilot substance abuse treatment program:

1. Stress Management 

Substance abuse may be a way to manage stress. People who have trouble unwinding may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with stressors in their lives. Unfortunately, alcohol addiction can cause many physical, mental, and social problems. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is a key skill for pilots. A substance abuse treatment program can help pilots develop coping mechanisms, such as meditation and reaching out to loved ones, that can be used to manage the stress of work and life.

2. Addiction Recovery

Addiction is a type of mental illness. Like other illnesses, people with addiction often need professional assistance in order to get well. Pilot substance abuse treatment programs can help patients through the various stages of addiction recovery, from detox to ongoing wellness assessments. An addiction counselor can speak with pilots to provide helpful resources. Understanding addiction can give patients the tools they need to fight it. Addiction counseling can be conducted with an outside treatment provider or a provider affiliated with the pilot's work.

3. Peer Support

A person's peers can greatly influence their behavior for better or worse. Pilots surrounded by a culture of drug use may be more likely to continue their addictive behaviors. Pilot substance abuse treatment programs strive to help patients develop the peer support they need to succeed at sobriety. Sponsors, mentors, and counselors can make up a support network for patients. The ability to pick up the phone and reach out to an understanding, trusted person at the first hint of cravings can help pilots overcome their addictions. Patients may find it helpful to undergo group therapy with other professionals struggling with addiction as part of their treatment program.

4. Work-Life Balance

Recovery from substance abuse is a lifelong endeavor. As pilots graduate from a substance abuse recovery program, they will continue to work with counselors to ensure that they do not backslide into their former habits. Counselors can help pilots achieve a healthy work-life balance that can be maintained without the use of drugs and alcohol. 

To learn more, contact a company like Lehigh Valley Counselors.