Can You Go To Rehab And Find A Job? Here’s The Simple Truth

Last Updated on March 29, 2025

Finding a job after addiction treatment can be a challenging task.  For example, how do you navigate the job market with a history of addiction?  How do you explain gaps in your resume or potential red flags in your background check?

For one, recovery, especially after rehab, is a protected status by Federal law, so even though you may have some hesitancy to report your past addiction, if you feel compelled to report it while job seeking, understand that it falls under a protected status and you have rights. 

And these rights extend if you are curious about “rehab if I have a job,” it’s almost as simple. 

Seeking help for your addiction can be difficult, especially if you are worried about how it will impact your employment. But getting help and overcoming addiction is possible, even while keeping your job. Addiction is a growing problem around the world, impacting millions of individuals and families. 

Many people with addiction worry about how treatment will affect their work, and some may put off getting the help they need because they fear losing their jobs or being unable to support their families. However, finding a balance between work and recovery is crucial to successful addiction treatment. If you are struggling with addiction and have a job, you don’t need to choose between your career and recovery. 

There are ways to seek addiction treatment while maintaining your employment. This article will explore some of the options available to you and provide guidance on navigating addiction rehab with a job.

 Job Seeking After Attending Rehab

One thing to consider is that recovery from addiction is a significant accomplishment, but it’s only the beginning of a new journey. You can take an approach to looking for a job as a first-timer, but it’d be wise to reply truthfully about any past struggles you may have had, especially if it involved any legal issues due to your addiction.

Many people in recovery struggle with finding employment, despite their newfound sobriety and dedication to a better life. The stigma surrounding addiction can make finding a job difficult and moving forward.

However, finding a job after addiction treatment is possible. It requires a strategic approach and a willingness to be open and honest about your past. After completing addiction treatment, many individuals may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about their next steps. 

One crucial aspect to consider is finding a job that suits their needs and allows for continued recovery.

Addiction can often disrupt a person’s career, leaving them unsure of how to move forward after treatment. However, finding a job that aligns with one’s interests and goals can provide a sense of purpose and structure in a person’s life.

While the job search process can be daunting, there are steps individuals can take to increase their chances of finding employment after addiction treatment. By following these tips and staying committed to their recovery journey, they can succeed personally and professionally.

Overcoming addiction is a significant accomplishment. Congratulations! Now, you’re ready to re-enter the workforce and start the next chapter of your life. 

However, finding a job after addiction treatment isn’t always easy. Addiction can cause gaps in employment and make it challenging to build a resume that showcases job-related skills. Here are some steps you can take to find a job after addiction treatment.

Utilize Career Services

Many addiction treatment centers offer career services as part of their aftercare program. 

Career services can help you develop your resume, identify your job-related skills, and connect you with potential employers. Take advantage of these services to help you find the right job.

Look for Jobs That Correspond to Your Skillset

We all have marketable skills, including those of us recovering. Identifying your skills can help you narrow the job search to identify jobs matching your competencies. 

For example, if you’re creative, look for opportunities in fields like graphic design, website development, copywriting, or video editing.

Consider Your Network Of Friends, Family, And Colleagues

Networking can be challenging, but it’s essential to finding a job after addiction treatment. Start building your professional network by reaching out to peers in recovery who work in your desired field. 

Attend networking events, and join industry-related groups on social media sites like LinkedIn. You never know who in your network can help you land a job.

Volunteer To Build Your Network And Develop New Skills

Volunteering not only helps you build new skills but also allows you to make valuable connections with community members and organizations. Your volunteer experience can also help fill gaps in your employment history with relevant experience.

Consider Temp Work

Temporary work assignments can help you gain new job skills, familiarize yourself with different work environments, and make valuable connections. These positions also offer more schedule flexibility, which can be beneficial as you continue your recovery journey.

Finding a job after addiction treatment can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right mindset, persistence, and networking skills, you can find the right job. 

Remember that there’s no shame in reaching out for help from others, and resources are available to help you succeed in your career after addiction treatment.

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04/18/2025 10:22 pm GMT