After completing the intensive outpatient program at our drug rehab in Chicago, our patients are ready to start putting the pieces of their lives back together. For many, this means finding a job. It is not uncommon for people with drug or alcohol addictions to lose their jobs. Once they become addicted, they start to prioritize drugs or alcohol over their job responsibilities. They may come to work late, hungover, high, or not show up altogether. Now that they are sober, it is time for them to take back this responsibility and start providing for themselves again, but employment for recovering addicts may not always be easy to come by. Luckily, Banyan Treatment Centers Chicago is here to give valuable insight on how to approach this process.

Good Jobs for Recovering Addicts 

Finding a job can be a challenge for anyone for a variety of reasons, such as people with severe depression or other mental illnesses. This can be even more true for someone who is in early recovery from addiction. Not only can their resume lack a lot of experience, but they may have been fired from their last job and have a gap in employment because they were in an inpatient or partial hospitalization program getting sober. For these reasons and many more, looking for a job after rehab can be overwhelming and stressful. Fortunately, there are some great jobs for recovering addicts where the skills they learned in recovery can be put to good use. 

Recovery-Related Jobs

Many people in recovery go on to enter a career in the recovery field because they have firsthand knowledge of what it is like to overcome a substance use disorder and get sober. Addiction counselors, peer specialists, recovery coaching, and social work are all good options. If you want to do less hands-on work with people in treatment but still be involved in the field, you may still be able to find other employment at a drug rehab.  

Vocational Careers

If your last job had you running to drugs or alcohol to cope with the stress, it is likely time to change your career. Starting a new career path from scratch can be a challenge, but vocational jobs like electrician, dental hygienist, registered nurse, HVAC technician, and beautician usually require less schooling and training time than other career paths. 

Trainers or Therapists

In rehab, you were likely exposed to several different addiction therapies and programs, like ones led by yoga instructors, spiritual leaders, dietitians, nutritionists, art therapists, music therapists, and personal trainers. If you enjoyed one of these programs, in particular, you could make a career out of it.

Part-Time Jobs

One of the best jobs for recovering drug addicts who are just getting back on their feet is a part-time position. They are less stressful than a regular nine-to-five and can help someone ease back into a normal routine instead of loafing around. Especially if you are struggling to determine what kind of career you want, a part-time job also gives you time to volunteer or shadow someone with a full-time career you are interested in. 

Best Jobs for Recovering Alcoholics

Finding a steady and rewarding job is an important stage in the recovery process for those battling alcoholism. It offers not only monetary security but also a sense of direction and routine. It's crucial to take into account work settings that are encouraging, low-stress, and beneficial to upholding sobriety when selecting a position. Here are some possible jobs for recovering alcoholics.

Entrepreneurship and Small Business Ownership

These can be an empowering decision for people in recovery who want to take control of their employment path. It enables flexibility and control over work schedules and settings. For those who may need to organize their employment life around their recovery obligations, this independence can be especially helpful. Additionally, it gives a sense of accomplishment and purpose that may be very motivating.

Administrative and Office Roles

For those in recovery, careers in administration or office work can be a great fit. These jobs frequently provide a regulated and predictable work environment, which can help with sobriety maintenance. The achievement of tasks like organizing, scheduling, and processing paperwork can give one a sense of purpose. These positions frequently require close teamwork, which fosters a sense of support and community.

Outdoor and Environmental Careers

For those going through recovery, deciding on a profession in the outside and environmental sectors might be revitalizing. Spending time in nature can be immensely therapeutic, which is why positions such as park rangers, environmental educators, and environmentalists frequently entail it. Making a connection with nature can give you a feeling of purpose and a good way to let tension out. Working in this sector also frequently encourages a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Do You Know How to Get a Job After Being Sober?

Finding a job after rehab requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. First and foremost, it's important to evaluate your abilities, interests, and skills. Think about any prior experiences or education that might be useful in the employment market. Additionally, think about utilizing career counseling or vocational guidance programs, which can offer specialized direction and support. Getting a job after rehab depends heavily on networking. Attend industry-related gatherings, sign up for trade organizations, and maintain contact with previous coworkers or classmates. These encounters may yield useful job leads and perceptions of possible prospects. For experience and to show potential employers your dedication, think about volunteering or interning in your intended industry.

It's crucial to create a carefully designed CV and cover letter when it comes to the job search process itself. Highlight your relevant experiences and talents while being open and honest about any work gaps. Be ready to highlight your personal development and resiliency during your sobriety journey. Focus on demonstrating your commitment, dependability, and desire to contribute to the workplace during interviews. It's crucial to conduct an in-depth study of the business to show that you genuinely want the position. Last but not least, keep your options for employment open. While having clear objectives is advantageous, being adaptable and willing to consider various professions or industries might lead to unforeseen paths to a prosperous and satisfying future after rehabilitation.

While you may not land your dream job right outside of rehab, it is important to find something to keep you busy and hold you accountable while you determine a better career path. Remember that each job can act as a stepping stone to your next position as well. For people who have yet to take steps to get sober, our Naperville rehab center is here to help.

Call us today at Banyan Chicago at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our Illinois rehab options and to get started on the recovery journey.