Specialized programs

Addiction in nurses and healthcare workers: Getting help without losing your license

Published December 2, 2025 · 9 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals. Editorial process.

Healthcare workers have higher rates of substance use disorders than the general population — driven by occupational stress, trauma exposure, long hours, and access to medications. Nurses are particularly affected, with studies showing diversion of controlled substances as a common pathway to addiction. The fear of career destruction keeps many from seeking help. But every state has programs specifically designed to help healthcare workers recover while protecting their ability to practice.

Professional monitoring programs

Every state operates a monitoring program for healthcare workers with substance use disorders — typically called an Alternative to Discipline program, Peer Assistance program, or Professional Recovery Network. These programs offer confidential entry (in many states, self-referral to the monitoring program is not reported to the licensing board), structured treatment and monitoring (typically 3-5 years of random drug testing, support group attendance, and workplace monitoring), career protection (participants who comply with the program maintain their license and ability to practice), and support during recovery (case managers who understand the unique challenges of healthcare worker recovery). The recovery rates for healthcare workers in monitoring programs are remarkably high — typically 75-85% maintain long-term sobriety, significantly higher than general population outcomes.

Why healthcare workers are at higher risk

Access to controlled substances creates opportunity that most people do not have. Occupational trauma — repeatedly witnessing suffering, death, and medical crises — creates the same PTSD risk as first responder work. A culture of self-sacrifice discourages seeking help. Long, irregular hours and chronic sleep deprivation undermine mental health. The belief that medical knowledge provides immunity from addiction leads to delayed recognition.

How to get help confidentially

Contact your state's professional monitoring program directly — this is usually the safest first step. Many programs allow voluntary, confidential self-referral before any workplace incident occurs. If you are uncomfortable contacting the state program, call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 and specify that you are a healthcare worker — they can direct you to appropriate resources. Treatment programs that specialize in healthcare professionals understand the unique aspects of your situation, including re-entry to clinical practice after treatment.

Find treatment near you

Shelby County Treatment Center

Alabaster, AL

Call 205-216-0200

Lighthouse of Tallapoosa County Inc

Alexander City, AL

Call 256-234-4894

South Central Alabama MHC

Andalusia, AL

Call 334-428-5050

Anniston Fellowship House Inc

Anniston, AL

Call 256-236-7229

Browse all facilities →

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NAMI · APA

Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my nursing license if I go to rehab?

In most states, self-referral to a professional monitoring program allows you to get treatment while maintaining your license. These Alternative to Discipline programs are specifically designed to protect healthcare careers during recovery.

What are professional monitoring programs for healthcare workers?

State-run programs that provide structured treatment and monitoring (typically 3-5 years) for healthcare professionals with substance use disorders. Compliance allows participants to maintain their license and career.

Do healthcare workers have higher addiction rates?

Yes. Healthcare workers face higher rates of substance use disorders due to occupational stress, trauma exposure, long hours, and in some cases, access to controlled substances.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.