Finding employment is an important step towards recovery. It can help you become productive, focused, and at the same time, it allows you to be financially independent. However, finding a job is not very easy, especially if you’re still in the early stages of your recovery. There are several tips for finding a job in recovery that you can try out to improve your chances, but before doing that, it would be good to discuss the options that you have when job hunting.
Job ideas for people in recovery
Many people in recovery think that their only option is either to go back to their old job that contributed to their struggles or find entry-level, low paying jobs. While there’s nothing wrong with that, as long as it is good and honest work, there are other options that you can explore that will also be beneficial to your recovery process.
Below are some ideas.
Recovery industry jobs
Having struggled with addiction yourself, that puts you in a position to share your experiences and help others in their recovery journey. Consider applying for a job in the recovery industry. The advantage of working in this field is that you are always surrounded with a supportive network so you are less likely tempted to relapse.
If you have the required educational attainment, you may be able to work towards becoming a recovery counselor. Some treatment centers may require a college degree but in some states, people with a high school diploma could be an addiction counselor as long as they have field experience or certification. Depending on your skill set, you could also apply as a support staff, administrative staff, or cook.
Online Jobs
If you find it difficult to immediately go back to the usual office environment especially in early recovery, consider applying for remote online jobs. You can be a remote writer, graphic designer, social media assistant, or virtual assistant.
The great thing about remote work is that you have more flexibility with your time. While it might not be the ideal setup as it doesn’t give you a regular routine, it may work for those who still need time to focus on their recovery but need to make money at the same time.
Fitness instructor
Exercise is very advantageous for people in recovery and this is the reason why many turn to exercise as a coping mechanism. If you are naturally athletic or you enjoy exercise, why not get certified as a fitness instructor?
Certification programs for becoming a fitness instructor are much shorter than the usual college degree, lasting from around 12 weeks to 6 months. You can choose to become a certified fitness trainer, a yoga instructor, or a group exercise class instructor. Being a fitness trainer means you can make money out of something you already enjoy, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, and also help other people.
Jobs in outdoor environments
According to studies, being in nature can have a positive impact on a person’s health and well-being. There is something therapeutic about being outdoors and enjoying nature. If you are in recovery, consider looking for a job in the outdoor industry to get the benefits of nature therapy.
Some examples include the following:
Lifeguard
Surfing instructor
Park ranger
Adventure company staff
Travel company staff
Tour guide
Wildlife photographer
Dog walker
Gardener
Jobs to avoid
There are some industries that may not be ideal for people who are in recovery. Of course, some people may not find any issue with these jobs, but it is better to avoid them especially in early recovery.
Jobs in restaurants and nightclubs
Working in an environment where you could have easy access to alcohol is a definite no-no. Even if you have an iron will, it can be extra hard to be in a place where everyone is drinking, partying or doing drugs.
Jobs that are extremely physically taxing
While it is normal to exert physical effort in many different jobs, try to avoid those that require you to break your back for the entire day. Jobs related to the construction industry are examples of these.
The reason why you should avoid this in recovery is because you are not yet 100% fit and healthy. The addiction took its toll on your body and you need to also physically recover. If you strain yourself too much and you’re always tired, this could lead to a relapse.
Customer service jobs
Customer service jobs are some of the easiest to get because there’s always a demand for people who are willing to work for lower pay. It might surprise you then why it is being recommended to avoid customer service roles.
The reason for this is because when you are customer-facing, you are somehow required to be friendly and be extra helpful to other people. If you are just in early recovery, it might be difficult for you to put on a happy face for eight hours straight.
Having customers speaking to you and asking you questions the entire day might also be too much for your patience or anger management issues. If you must work with others, it is better to look for jobs wherein you are only required to work with a small group of people regularly than face hundreds of strangers every day.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Morningside Recovery by Lighthouse today.