You've completed your treatment at a luxury drug rehab facility, and now you're ready to look for work. Gainful employment can be a very satisfying experience. It's nice to earn a livelihood and take part in the workforce again. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Stigma exists, and it may be an obstacle.
It's possible to see stigma as comprising four distinct elements: pre-judgment, stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination, all of which may occur at any point in the employment process—even before you start at a company.
For some, stigma prevents them from getting jobs, but it's present in other areas such as education, housing and health care. However, you may practice self-compassion while coping with feelings of shame or guilt. Prejudices are societal, not personal, as long as you keep that in mind. Don't allow them to impede your aspirations.
Know your rights Under the ADA.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, and it forbids employment discrimination against people with disabilities, such as substance use disorders or alcoholism. The ADA deems you disabled if your day-to-day activities are impaired because of a previous addiction for which you sought treatment in a recovery center.
It's against the law to ask about a candidate's disability or medical history during an interview or application process. Interviewers cannot inquire about a candidate's past drug usage or treatment, since doing so would imply a disability. But a prospective employer could ask you about current use. However, interviewers are prohibited from asking about your drinking or drug usage habits, such as how often you do it or how much you use, since doing so suggests that you might have a problem with addiction.
As long as they ask the same questions as everyone else in the same job category, an employer may legally inquire about your disability after making you an offer of employment. They also have the option to demand medical examinations. You must disclose your diagnosis of a drug or alcohol use problem if your employer requests it.
Get your job hunt off to a good start.
You must begin your job search with a well-written resume. Make sure that it accurately represents your most recent work history and educational background. To get started, talk to a close family member or acquaintance. In addition, many organizations may provide a hand.
Once you've polished your resume, think about what kinds of positions you want to pursue. Instead of applying to every job posting, narrow your search to those that are a good match for your skills. Stress and relapse are possible side effects of applying for too many jobs.
Use resources to your advantage.
You can find vacancies for people in recovery advertised on job boards by visiting the website for America in Recovery. There, you can connect with organizations that value second chances. Seminars and workshops may be held by various meetup groups. Other choices include the Salvation Army, the National Skills Coalition, and the Department of Labor's American Job Centers.
Boost the size of your network.
The importance of networking cannot be overstated. Detox and rehabilitation may leave you feeling isolated from the rest of society. You may be unsure of where or how to broaden your network when you come out.
You start where you are, like with most things in life. Start with the relationships you've established in your support or therapy groups. For instance, a sponsor from Alcoholics Anonymous may help you locate people to call for references. You may use LinkedIn to get a job, network, or learn about various subjects by listening to free instructional podcasts.
If your treatment center has ties with local companies and organizations, a case manager or other career counselor may assist you in finding employment.
You've finished treatment and are ready to restart your life. Reenter society with your new coping skills and a better way of managing and enjoying your life with confidence and pride.
December 11, 2021
