You’re working on yourself throughout addiction recovery. It’s a complex and challenging process. When you’re ready to get back to life, getting a job may seem like a challenge.
Many times, people have big questions and concerns:
- Will I qualify for a job?
- Do I need to tell my employer about my substance use disorder (SUD)?
- What skills do I have to help me find a job?
It’s very easy to become overwhelmed at this part of the journey. Your concerns are valid, but that shouldn’t stop you from moving forward.
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment and long-term drug rehab support in Lubbock. For some, that includes transitional living. We’ll help you get the tools, knowledge, and resources you need to build a life that aligns with your future goals.
How to Build a Career After Addiction Recovery
Think about all you’ve overcome. Stress, physical depletion, and emotional havoc. You’ve built incredible skills that could translate into important work. There’s no single career or path forward that applies to everyone. But there are several strategies we encourage you to utilize.
Define What You Have to Offer and What You Desire
Before doing anything else, explore the current set of skills you have. Addiction impacts people from all walks of life, and that means your past may or may not contribute to your future objectives. Consider the following:
- Do you have any specific skills or educational qualities that may be applicable to a job search?
- Do you have a specific passion or interest you wish to follow?
- Are you hoping to learn something completely new from where you were?
Spend some time carefully considering these specific areas. Your goal isn’t to have a specific job or career path in mind, but to be open to learning and exploring.
Develop Your Resume and Skills
During your traditional residential treatment in Lubbock with our team, you’ll learn the core skills to build a resume. We’ll help you develop a resume that incorporates your skills that transfer into desirable qualities in applicants.
If you are one of the many people who want to transition to a new career path, we’ll work with you to create a plan. That may include looking into continuing education, vocational programs, trade programs, or additional strategies applicable to your plans. We’ll help you learn about the options that may be best suited to your situation.
Building job interviewing skills is also important. Our team will work with you to overcome the fears and concerns you have. More so, you’ll gain hands-on resources to address the hard questions you may be asked.
Connecting You With Employers
In many situations, our team will work closely with you to connect you with employers in the area looking for qualified candidates with skills you have. Even if you are not sure you’ll get hired, we’ll help you gain critical skills for applying for jobs and building your resume.
Know Your Rights In Addiction Recovery
One of the biggest questions we get is this one:
Do I need to tell my new employer about my substance use disorder and recovery process?
The answer is no. You are not legally obligated to disclose this information to a new employer under the Americans with Disabilities Act. You only need to share information about your addiction recovery if it impacts your job performance or if you need specific accommodations in the workplace for it.
What Steps to Take When Talking to Your Employer
Whether you’re just hired or trying to find a job, knowing how to approach the topic with your employer is critical. Here’s our recommendation:
- Set up a private meeting with the person that you want to confide in when it is necessary to do so. This may be your employer directly or an HR manager.
- Only provide the information they need. Inform them that you have a medical condition and that you are seeking treatment for it. Be sure to provide information about your plans to maintain recovery.
- Bring any documentation they may require. This includes information about any limitations you have, as well as clarification of your ability to work.
Getting a job in addiction recovery can seem scary, but it’s one of many big steps and opportunities you’ll have in the coming months to rebuild your future.
Schedule Time to Discuss Your Needs With Us
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, we believe in fighting for your best outcome. That means we’ll put the time and hard work into building your confidence, mental health, and physical well-being so you can create the path forward. Contact us now to learn how we can help.
