Alcoholism

Chewster · Post by **Chewster** » 14 Aug 2020, 07:42

Got a bit of a drink problem since the whole covid thing. I can't stop. Off to the doctors ASAP, but want to know what my rights are in regards to royal mail.

Cafcant · Post by **Cafcant** » 14 Aug 2020, 09:56

Sorry to hear that, good to hear you are confronting your problem by going to see your Dr, have you thought off contacting Feeling First Class ( the phone number is on your payslip ) and also making your manager aware of your situation, they may be able to offer you some support.
Well done for admitting you think you have a problem with alcohol and I really hope things workout for you! Good luck

Grumpyoldmailman · Post by **Grumpyoldmailman** » 14 Aug 2020, 12:43

I wouldn’t say anything to them if you are already reaching out for help, what good will come from telling them?

deltaforce · Post by **deltaforce** » 14 Aug 2020, 15:09

Depends if they are driving or not.

Post by **aiden01** » 14 Aug 2020, 16:01

Grumpyoldmailman wrote:I wouldn’t say anything to them if you are already reaching out for help, what good will come from telling them?

Might save him from getting sacked if his sick record is bad an surely the op would like to take all the help he can get..have seen a few posties jobs saved over the years by getting professional help through rm.

noggin1969 · Post by **noggin1969** » 14 Aug 2020, 16:05

We had a lad at work who was an alcoholic , functioning at first but then became more erratic. RM did offer him help , but he hadn't reached that point were he felt he needed it. Sad to say he passed away , not as a result of his drinking. But I would say his weakened state didn't help fight off what most people would have survived. I'm sure it won't be covered under what was the DDA , but if you are open about your illness and show willing to get help , it can't harm. Good luck.

sindba · Post by **sindba** » 14 Aug 2020, 18:37

It is an illness like any other, exactly the same as a broken bone or infection.

Keep that in mind, and get well soon.

Seymour Buts · Post by **Seymour Buts** » 14 Aug 2020, 19:31

Well done for reaching out. I suspect you won't be alone, Covid has been a test for all of us and no doubt others have done what you have looking for some escape. I would tell management, and make sure you're not driving under the influence. The doc could sign you off for stress or whatever; most people that drink are doing so to escape some underlying reason. You should be reffered to some kind of support program, like AA. Good luck and you can beat this.

Route1 · Post by **Route1** » 14 Aug 2020, 22:56

There was a chap in our office who also had a drink problem. No-one had to be told he had an issue as u could smell it off him everyday.

RM eventually come to their senses, took him off driving & supported him through rehab. Makes sense to tell RM as they should have something setup to help.

cpsteve · Post by **cpsteve** » 15 Aug 2020, 10:18

sindba wrote:It is an illness like any other, exactly the same as a broken bone or infection.

Keep that in mind, and get well soon.

Its an addiction with you for life not something you heal from, the first step has been taken, AA helpline helped my friend worth a call.