Once rehab is over, it’s time to transition back into a normal routine. And this means getting back to work. Finding a job is not only essential to cover your bills and life expenses, but employment can also help improve and maintain good mental health.
After rehab, people may wonder or even worry about finding a job. Good news is there are resources and programs available to help recovering addicts find jobs.
To get started, take note of these six doable tips to help you launch and land a new job after rehab.
Go to career counseling
Career counseling is often part of a rehab’s after-care services. Before checking out, your care team may discuss career counseling and connect with you programs and services for finding a job once you leave rehab. Career counseling can help you with creating your resume, preparing for interviews, and getting professional references.
Update your resume
Don’t let your unique skills get lost on your resume. Create a “Skills” or “Competencies” section at the top of your resume and list 5-10 skills on this part. It may even pay off to hire a resume writer, or you can see if the local library offers free resume help.
Go through a job placement agency
A job placement agency can take some of the hard work of job hunting off your hands. Usually, all you have to do is submit your resume and interview with the agency, then they’ll send your resume out and call you when they have a position that matches your skills.
Attend a job fair
At a job fair, you get to meet with several potential employers, which increases your chances of landing a job. Plus, you get to meet and network with other job seekers. If attending an in-person job fair seems overwhelming, search for virtual job fairs online. They’re just as beneficial.
Be prepared to explain employment gaps
By law, you don’t have to give a detailed account on any medical or health-related care you’ve received. But that won’t stop employers from asking about gaps on your resume. If you have large amounts of time that you weren’t working, a good response is, “I took time off for personal/health reasons”.
Cope with rejection
Rejection is part of the job-seeking process. But you shouldn’t let rejection get you down or discourage you from continuing your job search. Instead, accept it, ask for feedback (if you can get any), and move on. If rejection leads to feelings of intense sadness or depression, reach out to your doctor or therapist so you can get help and keep looking for work.
These tips were provided by the staff at Taylor Recovery Center, a rehab in Houston, TX, that offers comprehensive drug addiction treatment – from residential rehab to post-rehab services. Call 713-557-8573 or complete our online form to learn how we can help.
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