What Is FMLA and How Can It Help You?
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that gives eligible employees the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific medical or family reasons—including mental health care and substance use treatment.
If you’re considering taking time off for rehab, therapy, or any behavioral health need, understanding your FMLA rights can help you protect your job while prioritizing your well-being.
When Can You Use FMLA?
You may be eligible to use FMLA if:
Your workplace has 50 or more employees
You’ve worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months
You need time off for a serious health condition, including mental illness or addiction, or to care for a family member with one
You can take up to 12 weeks off in a 12-month period, and your employer must maintain your health insurance during your leave.
Can You Use FMLA for Mental Health or Addiction Treatment?
Yes. FMLA covers behavioral health conditions that prevent you from working—this includes treatment for:
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health diagnoses
Substance use disorder, including inpatient rehab or outpatient programs
Therapy appointments, when prescribed by a licensed provider
You’ll need medical documentation confirming that treatment is necessary. FMLA leave can be taken all at once or intermittently, depending on your treatment plan.
What About Health Insurance?
While FMLA does not require your employer to pay you, it does require them to maintain your group health insurance. This means your coverage continues uninterrupted while you’re in treatment.
If you have commercial insurance (an employer-sponsored or private policy), your benefits can help cover the cost of care while FMLA protects your job.
💡 Tip: Check with your HR department and treatment provider to coordinate documentation and benefits before taking leave.
Common Questions About FMLA and Behavioral Health Care
Do I need to tell my employer why I’m taking FMLA?
You only need to provide enough information to show that the leave is for a serious health condition. You don’t have to disclose a specific diagnosis.
Can I be fired for using FMLA?
No. FMLA protects your job for up to 12 weeks—your employer must return you to the same or equivalent position after your leave.
Can I use FMLA more than once?
Yes, but only up to 12 weeks in a 12-month period (unless you’re caring for a military family member, which may qualify you for extended leave).
Can I use FMLA if I’ve already started treatment?
Yes, but you’ll need to request FMLA as soon as possible and submit medical documentation from your provider.
How Hygea Healthcare Supports You
At Hygea Healthcare, we provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment for mental health and addiction—and we work closely with patients navigating FMLA leave.
We help you:
Understand your addiction treatment options (inpatient detox & residential)
Verify insurance coverage and maximize benefits
Work with your HR department confidentially
Coordinate documentation needed for FMLA
Taking the First Step
Recovery is hard enough—taking time off to get help shouldn’t cost you your job. FMLA exists to protect your right to seek care, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Need help starting treatment and protecting your job?
Contact Hygea Healthcare today or verify your insurance to take the first step toward healing.
Structured Q&A Summary
Q: Can I use FMLA for mental health or addiction treatment?
A: Yes. FMLA protects your job for up to 12 weeks if you’re receiving treatment for a serious behavioral health condition.
Q: Will my health insurance still cover me while I’m on FMLA?
A: Yes. Your employer must maintain your group insurance coverage while you’re on leave.
Q: Does FMLA apply to rehab and detox?
A: Yes. If treatment is deemed medically necessary by a licensed provider, FMLA applies.
