SUBMIT A STORY

Prior to entering the program, I found it intimidating. I was unsure of what it entailed and felt nervous about the unknown. However, once I joined, my life changed completely. Trying to manage my situation alone wasn’t effective. The program introduced me to resources and people I didn’t know existed. It was not punitive but designed to help rather than harm.

Initially, I was apprehensive, thinking I would be under constant scrutiny by the Utah government program, fearing any misstep would be penalized. Fortunately, I completed the program without relapse. Some peers who did relapse shared similar initial anxieties. However, the program’s approach was not punitive but focused on finding solutions to ensure success. The requirements were standard for any program, aiming to support success. The program provided a treatment plan, not a disciplinary one, emphasizing therapy.

Monthly meetings were crucial, keeping me accountable and allowing for more in-depth discussions than reports alone. Initially, having family or supportive individuals attend was helpful. Once I realized I was doing it for myself, not just for the program, following it became easier. Post-program, I continue with meetings and support groups as they are essential for maintaining my progress. The program was a lifeline for me, and I’m grateful for it.” 

—Jeff NP

“The biggest difficulty I faced was coming out of my own seclusion, being able to share what I was going through with others. It was hard, with a lot of pride involved. Putting aside that pride to share and discuss my experiences was tough. Once I started the program and met with them, I was immediately put at ease. I knew I had made the right decision in self-reporting. The program and everyone I interacted with were genuinely concerned about my well-being, not just my success. They cared about me as a person, and that made me feel safe.

The program helped me the most with accountability. It helped me be accountable to myself, to the program, and to the community. This accountability was crucial in helping me overcome my addiction and stay sober. Seclusion is addiction’s ally, and having that accountability and support is a vital part of treatment. The program’s transition to a more individualized approach was something I appreciated. Quarterly meetings are now held individually with your case manager, which makes the process more personal. This personalized approach, along with the program’s tools, gave me my career back, something I truly love. One of my biggest fears was losing not just my physical health but also the career I had worked so hard for. UPHP helped me maintain my career and gave me a greater respect for my profession and life itself. Through this journey, I’ve gained a deeper understanding and empathy for people dealing with addiction. The program is here to help you succeed, even though the process is scary. Coming out of the shadows is incredibly hard, but it’s worth it. I was terrified, but I wouldn’t be where I am today without self-reporting and the program’s support. It’s something I wish I had done sooner. Treatment alone for six weeks isn’t enough for long-lasting sobriety. You need a longer-term accountability, which UPHP provides.” 

—Anonymous CRNA

How has your employee’s work improved as a result of their involvement with UPHP?

“My physician has successfully returned to work.  I was skeptical at first, but have been continually amazed at the sustained change we have experienced.  We have been fortunate to see a talented and caring physician get back to taking great care of patients.”

What would you tell someone who is thinking about referring an employee to UPHP?

“UPHP has been a great resource to me, as an employer, to navigate the complexities of giving a caregiver with serious life challenges a second chance.  UPHP’s expertise and support in providing a safe pathway for a health professional to return to work has been an amazing success for us.”

—Anonymous-Chief Executive Officer of local hospital