One of the most important parts of recovering from alcohol addiction is learning how to live a fulfilling life while maintaining sobriety. For many, this simply means being able to provide for themselves and their families. Unfortunately, addiction can put these priorities further down the list to make room for drinking. Addiction also leaves many with performance issues at work, ultimately leaving them unemployed.
After someone successfully completes an alcohol addiction treatment program, they’ll be able to enter the workforce once more. Finding the right employment can be difficult as the stress of certain jobs may be too much to handle when someone has only recently found sobriety.
Not All Jobs Are Created Equal
Gainful employment can be difficult to track down as the job market continuously evolves and operates on as low of wages as possible in some industries. When you’ve just gotten out of rehab and are acclimating back to daily life, finding work can seem impossible.
Many of those who have recovered from alcoholism tend to have a gap in employment history, a record of being terminated or a mix of both. Explaining these details on a resume can be difficult as employers aren’t allowed to ask questions about certain topics but still look for an explanation.
Finding Understanding Employers
As challenging as alcoholism recovery can be, there are some companies that value the experience gained by going through the process. Being able to truly understand what happens when addiction takes control is invaluable for helping others through the same steps.
Rehab facilities, research centers and even groups that travel the country to spread awareness on alcoholism are looking for hard workers with firsthand recovery experience. If you want to help at a higher level, there are companies willing to help or fully pay for a college education while you work for them.
Exploring New Career Fields
High-pressure work environments are often cited as the reason many begin drinking as a coping mechanism. Returning back to these industries can trigger addictive tendencies once again and cause a relapse. In order to avoid this, it may be a good idea to seek out training for a new career path.
There are numerous programs for those looking to get into the trades which includes job roles such as electrician, HVAC contractor, plumber and even working as a barber or hair stylist. Anything that requires a license from the state will tend to be a long-term career as it takes a fair bit of training and schooling to begin. Thankfully these jobs often pay well above the state average and companies are always in need of skilled tradespeople.
Taking It Slow at First and Finding Help When Needed
If the idea of a new full-time job seems like too much to take on during your recovery, part-time work may be the middle ground needed. There are countless part-time opportunities available that also provide more diversity in the type of work you can find. Working with animals or others in need can give you a sense of purpose to motivate you along the way.
No matter what the situation may be, there are times when addiction attempts to take over again. Overcoming these impulses and cravings isn’t easy, but proper alcohol addiction treatment will prepare you for these times. If you have any concerns about your or a loved one’s relationship with alcohol, please contact our team at Hickory Treatment Centers today.
