Addiction and Compulsion in Substance Abuse Counseling

Substance Abuse Counseling, as well as general counseling can help individuals better control urges, change habits and live more productive lives with healthier choices and non-maladaptive practices.   Substance Abuse Counselors play  key role in helping clients find ways to change, become resilient, and live healthier lives.

Addiction pushes one into bad habits and choices. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification Program

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification and see if it meets your professional needs in counseling

Acknowledging a Problem in Substance Abuse

Unfortunately, many individuals who suffer from addiction need first to wish to change.  The process of change is the key.  The Change Scale in Psychology looks at the challenges of helping a client see the need for change.  Only until a client acknowledges a problem can a client truly change.  Even after intellectually identifying a problem, one must become unified emotionally in the deeper yearning to change.  Once the need for change is identified, a client can begin to explore the problem, find solutions and execute the necessary changes to transform.  Unfortunately, this is a long process, with setbacks, but ultimately, it is direction that pushes forward.

Addiction and Compulsions

The addictive act is habitual in itself.  It was not initially habitual but merely an isolated act.  The act was initially committed out of curiosity, randomness, or a maladaptive act to deal with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety or various stressors.  The randomness of the act overtime evolved from merely an isolated event to a consistent series of act which eventually became habitual.  In all human acts, certain responses and acts to stress can turn to habit.  A person whether it involves substance abuse, drugs, or even particular actions such as gambling, or porn addictions, eventually enters into a pattern of actions in response to various stressors.   Some habits in fact can be healthy such as exercise, but even when exercise becomes a habit that is damaging the body or dominating time within a day can become an issue.  Maladaptive coping is not only wrong within itself but also excessive, even if good.  If coping is not at least moderate to a stressor, then habits can form that lead to addicting behavior.  Of course, in regards to substance, there exists more than a mental need to reframe, but also a physical addiction.  For some, fortunately,  chemical addiction does not occur to genetics, but for others, they can become fiercely dependent not only mentally but also physically to function.  Addiction hence is not only persistent and habitual without thought but also a necessary state to function for the person.

Compulsions to act upon a substance or behavior are also powerful drives.  A compulsion is not necessarily persistent but it is a powerful and overwhelming urge to engage in an activity or take a particular substance.  A compulsion is usually preceded by obsessive and intruding thoughts while addiction exists within a natural habit of acting.  Counselors, especially Substance Abuse Counselors can help clients better control compulsions through various therapies and help produce change and transformation through these therapies.  They can also help clients fight through the never ended battle of addiction.

Good Therapy states

“Symptoms that suggest a compulsive behavior has become problematic include:

  • Interpersonal and professional relationship problems
  • Concealment of the behavior
  • Denial of a problem
  • Inability to stop the behavior
  • Alternating feelings of anxiety, confusion, shame, or elation that revolve around the behavior
  • Withdrawal from or a lack of enjoyment in other activities
  • Desire only for the company of others who pursue the activity or, to an opposite extreme, the urge to conduct the activity only in isolation
  • Fear surrounding the potential repercussions associated with discontinuing the activity”

“Addictions and Compulsions”. Good Therapy. 2019.  Access here

Rewiring Oneself and Substance Abuse

Obviously, those who are not addicted but facing compulsions can escape the demon of maladaptive coping via substances or practices, but those who are chemically dependent face a life long battle.  After acknowledging the necessity of change, individuals need to dedicate themselves to more adaptive coping strategies and removing themselves from the temptations.  The occasion of sin is a powerful pull not only for the addicted but also those who face serious compulsions and temptations with a particular substance, activity or vice.  How one rewires and reframes the nature of the addiction is key.  Understanding first and foremost that it is maladaptive, excessive and unhealthy starts the important process of detesting what it is and what it does to the individual.  This turning away from habit though requires not only removing oneself from the situation and bad occasions and “friends” or places, but also working on rewiring oneself in how one responds to triggers and stressors that previously pushed one to the activity or substance.

Hence in counseling, a Substance Abuse Counselor will help a client discuss the urges, what the client feels and what other coping strategies one may employ.  For instance, if someone who feels stressed turns to smoking, a counselor may suggest when these urges arise, what are some other ways to calm down that you may be comfortable utilizing to help reduce stress other than smoking.  The key is to help the client rewire oneself and instead of using the addictive maladaptive habit and to begin to find other ways to find relief from the particular trigger.

Therapies in Counseling for Addiction

Many of the therapies that exist in general counseling can be applied for addiction as well.  Obviously first and foremost, a Rogerian and Humanistic Approach is key.  Empathy to the suffering of the individual is key.  This is involves helping the person identify one’s feelings and find ways for one change.  This involves helping the person see where he/she exists and where one wishes to be.  This involves one’s perceived self and then the person’s real self.  Helping a person cross the bridge from real self to ideal self involves the entire empathetic process of Rogerian therapy.  It also involves non-judgmental attitudes that allow the client to express his/her addictions in a safe place.  Furthermore it involves empathetic confrontations when necessary to help the client recognize the necessity for change and how the client’s addiction and behaviors is not only destroying oneself but also that of his/her family, friends, social life, professional career and overall health.  Rogerian therapies can also show the necessary empathy in helping those who relapse and help one move forward in developing better resiliency.

There are a variety of mental health therapies that can be employed to help those struggling with addiction and substance abuse

In addition, CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapies can be employed to help the client reframe life and reframe addiction and how maladaptive practices are only ruining one’s life.  This may involve returning to the initial issue of depression, trauma, PTSD, or anxiety that prompted the maladaptive coping.  Understanding the source and reframing it through CBT strategies can help the client start anew with a new meaning about the primary issue and ways to better deal with it.

Finally, group therapies and support groups are key in helping clients with addiction move forward.  This is especially true with those with little social or family support at home.  Support groups can help individuals share stories and find strength with similar persons. It can help one see others who understand oneself as well as see the success of others.  Furthermore, such programs as AA 12 Step Program can help clients take responsibility for one’s actions can help one develop the skills necessary to move past addiction.

Beyond psychological interventions, some cases require deeper and more drastic interventions which require detox and short or long term facilities, out patient care or even hospitalization.  Interventions may also require various medications to help a person.  Ultimately, the disease of addiction has its extremities.  Some require more drastic measures to become clear of the substance so that true therapy can begin.

Conclusion

Addiction is disease that destroys lives.  Whether it is behavioral, chemical, or substance, addiction tears a person away from the real problem through maladaptive practices that harm the person.  It leads the person down a darker path that merely alleviates the primary issue only temporarily but leads to longer lasting health, mental and social problems.  The habitual hold on the person requires professional, spiritual and empathetic help which also in many cases includes support from others.  Ultimately, the person must acknowledge the problem at all levels and search to find a solution.  Substance Abuse Counselors as well as Mental Health Counselors can play key roles in helping individuals live with addiction and transform one’s live.

While there are different professional levels of substance abuse counseling, some human service professionals are trained but only certified working under a licensed director, while others are also licensed professional counselors.  AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification looks to help human service professionals attain a certification in addictions to help them better help those afflicted with addiction.  Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified healthcare and human service professionals looking to help others in the area of addiction.  Whether it is working in a call center, or applying a certification with an existing licensure, AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program can help enhance one’s knowledge and professional background.

Additional Resources

Pederson, T. (2021). “How Are Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) Treated?”. PsychCentral. Access here

“Treatment of Addiction”. Psychology Today.  Access here

“Treatment of Substance Use Disorders”. (2024). CDC.  Access here

“Drug Addiction”. Mayo Clinic.  Access here

Webster, A. (2024). “Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction and Substance Abuse”. American Addiction Centers.  Access here

Substance Abuse Recovery and Re-entering the Work Force

Within the many challenges of substance abuse recovery from relapse to reconnecting with family, one also finds difficulty again finding financial stability.  Usually many who recover from substance abuse and addiction are in debt due to their high habit spending tendencies.  In addition to being in debt, finding a stable job or career can be difficult.  Again, due to the addiction, many may have lost a job or career and are in the process of rebuilding oneself both professionally and financially.   With these struggles, someone who is recovering from an addiction needs to be able to properly represent oneself in an interview and in properly create a clear and concise resume.  This can be difficult because many potential employers may be weary of a job gap on a resume or may be hesitant to hire someone in recovery.  Hence one needs to be well prepared to counter many of these concerns.

Certified Substance Abuse Practitioners from AIHCP can help others in recovery

The article, “Employment Resources for People Recovering From Substance Abuse Issues” by Frank Hackett supplies some detailed hints and strategies for someone recovering from addiction and trying to secure a job or career again.  He states,

“In the U.S., over 19 million Americans suffer from substance abuse issues. The road to recovery is long, filled with lifelong trials and tribulations—yet many people encounter one major challenge: reentering the workforce after achieving sobriety. And a lack of employment and career prospects is a leading cause of relapse. Although reentering the workforce after treatment can be difficult, your past does not dictate your future. With perseverance and diligence, you have every opportunity to build a career that brings you fulfillment. ”

To read the entire article, please click here

Hackett, F. (2023). “Employment Resources for People Recovering From Substance Abuse Issues”. Resume Builder

 

Substance abuse recovery is a period of rebuilding and transformation, which often includes the daunting task of re-entering the workforce. Achieving financial independence is a common goal for those in recovery, yet the journey to secure employment is fraught with unique challenges and requires a delicate balance between personal health and professional development. This article explores the intersection of sobriety and employment, offering insights into the common hurdles faced and strategies to overcome them while maintaining sobriety in a professional setting.

Key Takeaways

  • Securing employment is a critical step towards financial independence and self-sufficiency for individuals in substance abuse recovery.
  • The process of finding and maintaining a job post-rehab is non-linear, often involving simultaneous management of personal recovery and professional responsibilities.
  • Common challenges in the job search include a lack of positive references, balancing ongoing rehabilitation with work, and overcoming stigma and criminal history.
  • Strategies for successful employment include identifying recovery-friendly workplaces, utilizing resources and assistance programs, and networking to build professional relationships.
  • Maintaining sobriety in the workplace is essential, with employment playing a vital role in sober living environments and requiring careful navigation of high-risk industries.

Introduction to Recovery and Employment

The Intersection of Sobriety and Financial Independence

Achieving sobriety is a monumental step in the journey of recovery, but it is often closely followed by the pursuit of financial independence. The re-establishment of a stable income is crucial for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives post-rehabilitation. Employment not only provides the means to support oneself but also contributes to a sense of purpose and self-worth, which are vital components of sustained sobriety.

For many, the transition from substance abuse to a sober lifestyle involves redefining personal values and goals. The focus shifts from the immediate gratification of addiction to long-term stability and well-being. This shift often includes a reassessment of one’s relationship with money and material possessions, which can influence their approach to employment.

  • Prioritize sobriety in job choices
  • Seek employment that supports recovery
  • Understand the value of financial planning

The journey to financial independence in sobriety is not just about earning a paycheck; it’s about creating a sustainable lifestyle that supports long-term recovery.

It is essential for individuals in recovery to be mindful of the potential triggers and stressors present in certain work environments. Choosing a job that aligns with one’s recovery goals can help mitigate the risk of relapse and ensure that the path to financial independence also leads to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

The Non-Linear Journey of Recovery and Employment

The path to re-entering the workforce after substance abuse recovery is seldom a straight line. Individuals often face the dual challenge of finding employment while still grappling with the complexities of their recovery process. The journey intertwines personal healing with professional development, and setbacks in one area can impact the other. For instance, those in active addiction are far more likely to display workplace behaviors such as absences, frequent tardiness, decreased job performance, or even substance use, which can lead to a cycle of job loss and further substance abuse.

It is essential to recognize that recovery and employment are interdependent. A stable job can provide the financial support and structure needed for sustained sobriety, while a strong recovery foundation can enhance job performance and reliability. However, the pressures of managing both can be overwhelming, especially when additional responsibilities, such as family care, are present.

The process of rebuilding a life during recovery is multifaceted, involving not just the search for employment but also addressing the underlying issues that led to substance use.

Navigating this non-linear journey requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. It is a process of continuous self-improvement and professional growth, where each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory in itself.

Balancing Personal Needs and Professional Aspirations

For individuals in recovery, re-entering the workforce is a delicate balancing act that requires aligning personal health needs with professional goals. The pursuit of financial independence must not come at the expense of sobriety. A supportive work environment, reasonable working hours, and minimal stress are crucial factors in this equation. Vocational training and job placement programs offered by community organizations can be instrumental in facilitating this balance.

  • Prioritize recovery activities such as therapy sessions, support groups, and self-care.
  • Manage time effectively to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
  • Seek employment that accommodates the need for ongoing rehabilitation.

Balancing the additional pressures of personal and family needs with professional responsibilities can be overwhelming. It is essential to approach this challenge with a structured plan that emphasizes recovery maintenance.

Developing coping strategies for potential workplace triggers and stress is vital. Regular breaks, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can help manage cravings and negative emotions. By maintaining a recovery-focused routine and building a supportive professional network, individuals can navigate the transition back into the workforce while safeguarding their sobriety.

Employment in Recovery: Common Challenges

Employment in Recovery: Common Challenges

For many individuals in recovery, re-entering the workforce is marred by a shortage of positive references. This gap often stems from a disrupted work history or strained professional relationships due to substance abuse. Employers typically seek references to validate a candidate’s reliability and work ethic, making this a significant barrier to employment for those in recovery.

  • Self-assessment: Reflect on personal strengths and past responsibilities to articulate one’s value to potential employers.
  • Volunteer work: Engage in volunteer opportunities to build a fresh track record of commitment and reliability.
  • Skill development: Pursue educational courses or certifications to enhance employability and provide evidence of self-improvement.

While the challenge is formidable, it is not insurmountable. Proactive steps can be taken to mitigate the effects of a sparse reference list, such as focusing on personal development and seeking out new opportunities to demonstrate one’s capabilities.

It is also beneficial to be transparent with potential employers about one’s journey through recovery. Honesty about past challenges can sometimes turn into an asset, showcasing resilience and a commitment to personal growth. Networking within recovery communities can also lead to connections with employers who are more understanding of the unique circumstances faced by individuals in recovery.

Managing Ongoing Rehabilitation with Work Demands

For individuals in recovery, re-entering the workforce is a pivotal step towards financial independence and societal reintegration. However, balancing work and recovery demands careful planning and support. Post-rehabilitation, the journey to maintain sobriety continues with aftercare services such as 12-step meetings or therapy sessions, which must be integrated into the work schedule.

A healthy post-rehab routine is essential for long-term recovery. It should include time for work, self-care, and ongoing rehabilitation activities. Here are some tips for professionals:

  • Prioritize your rehabilitation schedule alongside work commitments.
  • Seek employment that is supportive of your recovery journey.
  • Communicate with your employer about your needs in a professional manner.
  • Build a daily routine that balances work with self-care and recovery-related activities.

Balancing work and recovery is not only feasible but also imperative for making the rehab journey successful. It requires a commitment to self-care and the development of a structured daily routine that accommodates both professional responsibilities and recovery efforts.

Overcoming Stigma and Criminal History in Job Searches

The journey to re-enter the workforce post-rehabilitation is fraught with challenges, not least of which is the stigma associated with past substance abuse and criminal history. Despite legal protections for employment rights, the shadow of past difficulties often looms large during job searches. Employers may subconsciously allow biases to influence their hiring decisions, leading to fewer opportunities for those in recovery to even secure an interview.

The process of overcoming stigma is not just about securing a job; it’s about changing perceptions and advocating for the value that individuals in recovery can bring to the workplace.

Organizations dedicated to vocational rehabilitation play a crucial role in bridging the gap between recovery and employment. They offer a suite of services designed to support individuals with a criminal record or a history of substance use disorder. These services often include:

  • Information on employment rights and protections
  • Resources tailored to the unique needs of recovering individuals
  • Assistance with job-related skills and training

Branching out from personal networks to utilize these resources can be instrumental in navigating the job market. It is essential to recognize that a history of substance dependency or criminal background does not render an individual unemployable, particularly when they are committed to their recovery journey.

Strategies for Finding Employment Post-Rehab

Strategies for Finding Employment Post-Rehab

Identifying Recovery-Friendly Work Environments

For individuals returning to the workforce after rehabilitation, identifying a recovery-friendly work environment is crucial. Such workplaces understand the unique needs of those in recovery and often provide supportive measures to facilitate their reintegration. These measures may include flexible scheduling to accommodate therapy sessions, a culture that discourages workplace drinking or drug use, and access to employee assistance programs that offer counseling and support.

To build a healthy work-life balance, manage your time effectively, ensuring enough space for therapy sessions, support group meetings, and self-care activities.

A recovery-friendly work environment also prioritizes the well-being of its employees, recognizing that a supportive atmosphere can significantly enhance job satisfaction and retention. It is beneficial for individuals to seek out employers who demonstrate a commitment to their workforce’s recovery journey, often indicated by policies that promote mental health and sobriety.

  • Look for jobs with reasonable hours and minimal stress.
  • Consider vocational training or job placement programs offered by community organizations.
  • Establish a routine that maintains a focus on recovery, including time for self-care and support networks.

Utilizing Resources and Assistance Programs

For individuals in recovery, the path to employment is often paved with the assistance of various resources and programs designed to facilitate the transition. These programs provide critical support in areas such as housing stability, health insurance, and professional development. They are essential in helping individuals maintain their treatment and recovery while seeking employment.

  • Economic Development Assistance Programs (EDAP) offer ongoing support for public works and economic adjustment, which can be crucial for those re-entering the workforce.
  • Recovery support services focus on securing sustainable permanent housing, a fundamental need that directly impacts one’s ability to gain and maintain employment.
  • Training and support services are tailored to empower individuals in education, financial literacy, and health and wellness, including addressing mental health and substance use issues.

The integration of these resources into a recovery plan not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term stability and success in the workforce. It is a strategic approach that acknowledges the multifaceted challenges faced by those in recovery.

It is important for individuals to be aware of the ongoing application processes for programs like those sponsored by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and USDA Rural Development (USDA RD). These programs are designed to assist residents in achieving outcomes that support their overall well-being and employment goals.

Networking and Building Professional Relationships

In the journey of recovery and reintegration into the workforce, networking emerges as a pivotal step. It is through the expansion of one’s social and professional circles that opportunities for employment can often be found. Individuals are encouraged to begin with the people they already know, leveraging existing relationships as a foundation for new connections.

Engaging with local organizations, such as civic groups or churches, can serve as a fertile ground for meeting community members and forming valuable relationships. Volunteering offers a dual benefit: it allows individuals to showcase their skills and dedication, while also expanding their network. These activities not only foster professional relationships but also contribute to building healthy relationships in recovery, providing support and acceptance.

  • Begin with familiar contacts and expand outward
  • Get involved in community organizations
  • Volunteer to demonstrate skills and passion

Finding employment post-rehabilitation is challenging but achievable. Joining professional groups and attending workshops are additional avenues for networking. These environments can be particularly conducive to meeting like-minded individuals and can lead to both personal growth and potential job prospects.

Maintaining Sobriety in the Workplace

Maintaining Sobriety in the Workplace

The Role of Employment in Sober Living Environments

In the realm of sober living environments, employment is often a cornerstone of recovery. The structure and accountability provided by a job can be instrumental in maintaining sobriety. Residents are typically encouraged, if not required, to seek employment, which not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also aids in the re-establishment of a normal routine.

Transitioning from a rehabilitation facility into a sober living arrangement that accommodates employment is an important step in the aftercare process.

However, the workplace can present its own set of challenges for those in recovery. For example, the restaurant industry is known for its high-stress environment and easy access to alcohol, making it a potential hazard for individuals striving to maintain their sobriety. A study on restaurant workers’ sobriety has highlighted this delicate balance between the necessity of employment and the risks it can pose.

To mitigate these risks, sober living homes often provide support through various means:

Addressing Unique Challenges in High-Risk Industries

Certain industries present unique challenges for individuals in recovery due to higher rates of substance use and the associated workplace culture. Industries such as construction, mining, and some service sectors are known for elevated levels of alcohol and substance use disorders. These conditions are characterized by an uncontrollable use of substances despite the negative consequences, and they disproportionately affect blue-collar, middle-class, and white-collar professions.

In male-dominated fields, where the workforce is predominantly male, the prevalence of alcohol-related problems is notably higher. This is particularly true in industries like construction, utilities, manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation. For example, in the construction industry alone, one in five workers is reported to have a substance use disorder.

The constant pressure to deliver, unpredictable weather conditions, loneliness, and depression are factors that contribute to substance misuse among professionals such as truck drivers. Younger workers, in particular, may turn to drugs to cope with work pressures.

Professionals in recovery must navigate these industry-specific challenges while maintaining their sobriety. Strategies to address these challenges include seeking employment in recovery-friendly work environments, utilizing support programs, and building a strong professional network that supports their recovery journey.

Creating a Supportive Social Circle in Professional Settings

In the journey of recovery, establishing a supportive social circle within professional settings is crucial for maintaining sobriety. This network not only provides emotional backing but also serves as a resource for guidance and accountability.

  • Choosing supportive work environments is the first step in fostering a conducive atmosphere for recovery.
  • Maintaining a recovery-focused routine helps in integrating work life with the essential aspects of sobriety.
  • Building professional networks through joining groups and attending workshops can lead to meaningful connections.
  • Developing stress management strategies and having a supportive network are key to navigating the pressures of the workplace.

By actively seeking out and nurturing relationships with colleagues who understand and respect the recovery process, individuals can create a buffer against potential relapse catalysts. Regular check-ins and participation in shared activities can further solidify these connections, providing a foundation of support that extends beyond the workplace.

Finding employment after rehab may be challenging, yet it opens the door to new opportunities for building relationships. Volunteering and engaging with community organizations are excellent avenues for expanding one’s social network and demonstrating commitment to both personal growth and professional development.

Achieving and maintaining sobriety is a commendable journey, and the workplace can be a critical environment for support and success. If you or someone you know is striving for sobriety in the professional setting, our comprehensive Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification can provide the necessary tools and knowledge. Visit our website to explore our certification programs, continuing education courses, and a wealth of resources designed to empower health care professionals in the field of substance abuse counseling. Take the first step towards enhancing your expertise and making a positive impact in your workplace today.

Conclusion

AIHCP offers a Substance Abuse Practitioner certification program for trained professionals to help others overcome addiction

In conclusion, re-entering the workforce after substance abuse recovery presents a complex set of challenges that require resilience, support, and strategic planning. The journey to financial independence and self-sufficiency is fraught with obstacles, including the need for positive references, the management of ongoing rehabilitation, and the potential for employment environments that may threaten sobriety. However, with the utilization of personal networks, job-related assistance programs, and a focus on building new professional relationships, individuals in recovery can navigate these challenges. It is essential to prioritize personal recovery and seek employment that aligns with one’s rehabilitation goals. By doing so, recovering individuals can rebuild their lives, contribute meaningfully to society, and solidify their path to long-term recovery. The process is neither easy nor linear, but with determination and the right resources, finding employment and reintegrating into society post-rehab is an achievable and rewarding goal.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals looking to help others through the process of addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common challenges faced during employment searches post-rehab?

Common challenges include a shortage of positive references, managing ongoing rehabilitation with work demands, and overcoming stigma and criminal history during job searches.

How can someone in recovery identify a recovery-friendly work environment?

Look for employers who demonstrate a supportive attitude towards recovery, offer flexible schedules for ongoing treatment, and have a clear policy on substance abuse.

What resources and assistance programs are available to help find employment after rehab?

There are job-related assistance programs specifically designed for recovering addicts, including vocational training, job placement services, and support groups.

Why is employment important in sober living environments?

Employment is a pillar of recovery that instills a sense of responsibility and normalcy, helping residents maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives.

How can recovering individuals balance personal recovery with work?

By establishing a structured routine that includes regular check-ins, prioritizing recovery activities, and seeking work that doesn’t compromise their sobriety.

What strategies can help in overcoming the stigma of substance abuse in the workplace?

Open communication, seeking supportive employers, advocating for fair employment practices, and focusing on demonstrating reliability and competence can help overcome stigma.

How can networking and building professional relationships assist in finding employment post-rehab?

Networking can lead to job opportunities, provide social support, and help build a professional identity that reinforces recovery goals.

What unique challenges do high-risk industries pose for individuals in recovery?

High-risk industries, like the restaurant industry, may have environments that are more prone to substance use, requiring individuals to be vigilant and seek additional support.

Additional Resources

“Finding Employment In Recovery From Addiction: A Step-By-Step Guide”. ARK Behavioral Health.  Access here

“Working Through Recovery: How to Navigate Sobriety on the Job”. Jedeikin, M. (2022). Indeed.  Access here

“Finding a Job While in Recovery”.  Reviewed by Hoffman, K. (2023). AddictionHelp.com.  Access here

“A Guide To Finding Employment In Recovery”. Powers, T. (2016). Sober Nation.  Access here

Substance Abuse Practitioner Program Article on Men and Mental Illnesss

Many men suffer from alcoholism and mental illness but find no help.  This is partly due to attitudes towards men and how mental illness is approached.  Men need as much help as women when it comes to mental issues and require the same help.  Men just need to ask for it.

Many men do not seek the help they need to get well. Please also review our Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it matches your goals

The article, “Why Many Men Have a Harder Time Seeking Treatment for Mental Illness” from Healthline states,

“I think part of it may be this macho thing,” Dr. Raymond Hobbs, a physician consultant at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, told Healthline. “A lot of guys don’t want to admit they have this problem. They still see depression as a sign of weakness.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review our Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it meets your academic needs.