Finding a job after treatment can be challenging. In addition to the normal challenges of job hunting, people recovering from addiction may have to explain employment gaps, job loss, and possibly jail time. What’s more, since addiction typically begins at a young age, many people will have lost educational opportunities, perhaps dropping out of high school or college. Some employers may be reluctant to hire someone with an addiction history. Here are some ways to overcome these challenges and get a good job after addiction treatment.
Network.
Whether you have an addiction history or not, it always helps to know someone when you’re looking for a job. While you may feel reluctant to ask for help, it can greatly improve your chances. Tell your friends and family that you’re looking for a job. It helps if you specifically what you want to do, but keep an open mind about opportunities that come up. While you might get lucky and discover your sibling or best friend can get you a job, you are more likely to find something through friendly acquaintances. These are friends of friends, people you know but aren’t especially close to. This group is much bigger than your inner circle and will have more connections outside your immediate network. You may want to ask people you met at mutual aid meetings, for example.
Volunteer.
It’s much easier to get volunteer work than paid work. Volunteer organizers are typically happy to take whoever shows up. While this won’t pay anything, it is a good way to rebuild your reputation and possibly pick up some skills and experience. If you’re a reliable volunteer for a reasonable length of time, you can have a solid reference and some work experience to show potential employers. What’s more, volunteering strengthens your recovery by creating social connection and improving your self-esteem.
Be patient.
You’re likely to be rejected from a lot of jobs, but that would be true even without an addiction history. Applying for jobs is essentially a numbers game. You just have to keep at it and eventually someone will decide you’re the best candidate for their particular needs. It’s easy to feel discouraged, but just keep trying.
Keep an eye out for recovery-friendly businesses.
While you might assume an addiction history is a strike against you, some businesses are happy to give another chance to people in recovery. New Hampshire, for example, has a program that provides incentives to recovery-friendly businesses. These businesses recognize that this is just another form of supporting their employees, which can pay off for everyone in the long run.
Consider more education.
If you were never able to finish high school or college, consider getting more education or training. You may be able to get scholarships or student loans, making more education surprisingly affordable. Many universities provide students with work-study opportunities so you can already have some job experience when you leave.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
