Few people plan on looking for a job—or anything else—when they plan their inpatient visit for treatment. Unfortunately, not many employers tolerate an extended leave of absence despite the many laws that say otherwise. Without the right boxes checked, it’s all too easy for patients to lose their jobs when in rehab. 

That assumes they haven’t already lost their jobs. They could have shown up to work intoxicated, skipped shifts, or lost their job due to criminal convictions. Those are all fair reasons to fire an employee, but the mark on one’s record is hard to clear. 

Though the picture seems bleak, plenty of resources exist to make finding a job after recovery possible. 

Things to Consider When Looking for Work After Recovery 

Addiction treatment isn’t the end goal. It represents a new beginning. The uncertain path forward demands many questions, especially self-directed ones. Consider the benefits of a career shift or low-impact work early on. Look for employers who respect recovery goals and the legal rights of recovering substance users. And make sure to learn those rights and exercise them. 

Career Goals 

Did the last job before rehab cause the problems that led to drug abuse, or did it provide a vital sense of purpose? Poor work-life balance or work stress drives many to drink or use drugs. If so, stay away from those careers and think long and hard about future career stages. 

Are funds available to return to school? If not, which skills transfer well to other industries? If able to stay in that industry, which connections would point to future prospects? Contact references and contacts to get a foot in the door at a great company that supports recovery.  

Find Recovery-Supportive Employers 

Search for companies that will support the lifelong sobriety journey. These organizations advertise benefits like wellness initiatives, flexible time off, and extra healthcare benefits. Many companies even tout their willingness to hire felons. They are worth considering if a past criminal record puts off prospective employers. Everyone wants good benefits, so expect stiff competition.  

Flexible Schedules or Part-Time Jobs 

The transition from rehab changes everything. It has a rigid structure, which others maintain for the patients. The self-maintained 9-5 job schedule is a sudden and difficult transition. Don’t jump right in. Start slow and volunteer, take advantage of part-time work, or work for a temp agency to build connections without full hours. 

Reduced hours reduce stress, which eases reacclimation. These methods help build new skills and network with like-minded people. It also provides plenty of low-stakes opportunities to learn and exercise legal rights as recovering addicts. 

Learn Sober Peoples’ Legal Rights 

Some employers hesitate if and when previous drug use comes up. Most shouldn’t disclose their history of past use unless required. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) states employers can’t ask about past use of or treatment for legal drugs like alcohol. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 bars employers from discriminating against recovering substance use disorder patients. The ADA protects addiction as a disability, meaning employers cannot refuse to hire, terminate, or refuse to promote employees because of it. This protection covers both the history of previous use and enrollment in current treatment. 

Employers must make “reasonable accommodations” for attending treatment. For example, they must provide an altered work schedule for appointments or meetings. While these protections help, they do not guarantee a job. 

Hurdles to Job Hunting After Rehab 

Discrimination within the law and past legal issues unfortunately close many doors. Self-esteem damage after long unemployment risks relapse as financial stresses and disappointment accumulate. Prepare for these obstacles and discuss them with therapists if necessary.

Stigma and Shame 

Prevailing stigma against both current and former addicts may subconsciously reduce hiring chances. Exercise careful judgment when disclosing medical history. 

Limited Experience and Networks 

If shifting careers to avoid stress, remember that few jobs hire anyone with no experience in the field, regardless of medical history. Consider training or unpaid internships to bridge the gap. 

Finding a Job After Recovery is Like Finding a Job Before It 

Despite some extra obstacles, finding a job is hard for everyone. Imitate the people who succeed and use their resources to find a way forward. And leverage the additional resources available to people ready to reintegrate into society.  

Government and Private Aid 

Many training and employment programs target post-recovery job seekers, working to overcome the disadvantages they face. Consider specialized job search websites to find employers that make their willingness to take on recovering addicts known. There are also many programs dedicated to post-recovery job seekers, both private and public. Remember, the ideal job might not come. Take what’s offered. A job that pays the bills and doesn’t cause much stress is better than no job. 

Network 

Addiction ends friendships. Fortunately, building new bonds is a core part of recovery. Use those benefits. Ask people in meetings if they can point to suitable employers or programs. Meet new people while volunteering or working part-time and connect to hiring managers through them. 

Training and Education 

Many rehabs understand their patients’ former careers drove them to drink. They start the career transition early by offering vocational training as part of treatment.

After attending a rehab that doesn’t offer suitable training, find a cheap or free community education center to learn valuable skills.  

Employment as a Sobriety Tool 

Finding a job during recovery is stressful and worthwhile. Gainful employment reduces financial stresses, expands the supportive social circle, and adds self-accountability and a healthy routine. The boost to self-esteem and mental health makes recovery easier. 

Social Benefits of Working 

Most work involves other people, reducing social isolation and addressing loneliness, which makes recovery more challenging. Belonging to a team that works toward a common goal grants a clear sense of progress and purpose in life. 

Financial Stability 

Earning money pays for expenses that support long-term recovery. Health insurance provided by some jobs funds vital medications and helpful therapies. Independence and the ability to self-provide—and self-control by buying things other than drugs or alcohol—further boost confidence and self-esteem. 

Call Never Alone Recovery to Begin the Journey to Post-Rehab Life 

Never Alone Recovery’s online support group brings survivors and new patients together to share their stories. There, participants learn how others succeeded and ask for advice, all for free. Call now for more information about Never Alone’s other resources, including its addiction recovery consultants and free addiction assessment.