I have been unemployed for 8 months to focus on addiction recovery.

34 Comments

1. Monica Lynn SadlerMarch 31,2022 at 7:39PM UTC

   I don't think it's anyone's business that you are in recovery. If you choose to tell your prospective employers, be fully prepared for the "stigma" as it is a possibility. That said, I pray you have much success in all your endeavors. God bless.

2. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 8:01PM UTC

   Congratulations on your recovery! I'm also a recovering alcoholic with about 4.5 years of sobriety. My rehab facility addressed the stigma associated with both addiction and mental health, this is a very serious consideration as you re-enter the workforce so I applaud your self awareness around this issue.

   If I were a betting person, few people will challenge your explanation of an employment gap due to a medical issue. There are so many restrictions around pumping applicants and existing employees for info on health conditions. I might consider this a back-burner issue.

   If you're re-entering the workforce, it is 100% your responsibility to manage your ongoing to recovery. This will mean serious time management to make sure you're fulfilling both your work obligations and your ongoing recovery. I can't urge enough caution to avoid using this is a crutch: can't get that work done b/c I'm focused on my recovery, I'm triggering today because someone asked me to go to happy hour, etc. This is not your employer's problem, it is yours! You have FULL ownership of this so be careful not to project this onto your job. Additionally, your recovery is simply not a valid excuse to bend the rules at your place of employment. If you want to be treated the same as everyone else, you'll need to deliver that level of work product.

   I personally found that the longer that I was sober the easier it was to manage these competing interests, handle time management, and talk about it (very selectively) with colleagues. If it were me applying for a job, I personally would NOT mention my early recovery. That's just me so obvi make the decision that is best for you.

   If AA is your jam, look at meetings that are either early morning, remote or in the evenings so it doesn't conflict with your job. I read extensively on mental health issues, personality disorders, and current addiction treatment trends and I consider all of this ongoing maintenance of my sobriety.

   I can tell you that recovery gets easier, at least it did for me. I sense you fully embraced your time in rehab (as did I) and the day I checked in there, I leaned in and promised myself I would never be drunk again. Rehab was the biggest gift I'll ever receive in my life...and it saved my life. You can do the same, best of luck in your next steps!

3. Shawna ClarkMarch 31,2022 at 10:51PM UTC

   Kudos for having the courage to admit yourself into recovery. That’s a huge step and you should be proud. I’m glad you’re maintaining your health and holding it as a top priority. When I’ve had gaps between employment, a mentor suggested to me that I explain that as needing time to focus on my health and I am ready to re enter the workforce. Because you’re actively participating in a program, I may mention needing some flexibility in your schedule for continuing to improve your health. Revise it how you need. This is a safe space, and I’m proud of you for putting yourself first. The right job will understand your needs. ?

4. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 11:02PM UTC

   I would not go into detail because it creates more uncertainty and questions than it answers. What hiring managers and recruiters are looking for is a short and succinct answer that reasonably explains the gap. They are more focused on you, your skills, experience and how you can add value to their team.

   To share personal details isn't necessary.

5. AnonymousApril 1,2022 at 2:13PM UTC

   As a recovering alcoholic myself (5+ years), I do not share my recovery with my employers (and I've been here almost 20 years). I simply say, if offered, "I don't drink."

   I also do not share details of medical situations with anyone. "I had a medical situation" is all that's necessary.

6. AnonymousApril 1,2022 at 5:39PM UTC

   I am so proud of you. :-)

7. Deb HornerApril 2,2022 at 12:33PM UTC

   I wouldn't open the door to your addiction recovery at all - either in an interview or once employed. That opens the possibility that they can assume you are using again, and eliminate your position. It also violates HIPPA in a huge way. I get that you want to be transparent, and it's a huge step for you to take, but please don't talk about it at work. It is necessary to take those steps to care for ourselves, but essential to keep them private in the workplace. Now, once employed, you may find like minded folks with whom you work, and you can discuss it with them - but I wouldn't do any discussing during a probationary period.

8. AnonymousApril 2,2022 at 3:43PM UTC

   Lots of employers require medical screening- or at least a basic disclosure form. People are right saying you will face prejudice if you disclose, but I am not sure how you can avoid telling them if asked.

9. AnonymousApril 2,2022 at 6:54PM UTC

   Medical screening…for what?!?! I’m also not following your last sentence? No employer will ask a candidate if they’re in recovery from drugs or alcohol addiction. Get real!

10. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 12:20PM UTC

    Congrats on your recovery! I am coming up on 6 years sober. I also have dual diagnosis which I must also manage. It is absolutely your choice who you tell about your program. When I was looking for jobs, I did not share information about either. Explaining that you’ve been coping with a medical condition and needed that time off is sufficient. These ARE medical conditions that you HAVE BEEN coping with. There’s a time and a place to be fully transparent for example, in recovery meetings, with loved ones. But as we work our programs, we also need to be able to discern where and when it is safe and appropriate to disclose all parts of ourselves. I truly wish you luck as you re-enter the workforce, I suggest kicking up your program during that transition as it can be a tough one to navigate.

11. Caroline AvilaApril 3,2022 at 12:36PM UTC

    I'm looking forward to finding out what anyone else has to say about the revealing the more personal backstory on the working gap. I applaud you from the bottom of my heart for being so strong in your conviction to maintain your sobriety. I understand the journey, as I myself, have had to deal with going to rehab at the VA and working on staying clean. It IS a battle that is to be taken seriously. In my own opinion, especially sine we are in a pandemic crisis, as well as HIPAA laws, you can remain quieter about what has kept you out of the workforce. I for one strongly believe it is no one's business why I did not work for a period of time, unless they specifically ask me, and then only tell a basic minimum amount. Again, only say when asked. I would not voluntarily open up that much about myself. Confidentiality in the workforce is not exactly a given. Perhaps say something after you get hired, if you feel you need the support of others around you who are going through the same. People stigmatize all too much these days without getting to know the worker and real person that you are, before placing a judgment. Once hired, find a workplace support group or one far away from there, keeping them seperate.

12. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 12:46PM UTC

    I am a former Drug Abatement Program Manager which is a fancy title to say I ran my company's drug testing and permanent bar check program. Unless you've had a positive test at an employer, I would not mention it because you're still within the first year. In the industry we view everyone that has not been sober a year as a risk. They'll hold it against you. They don't have the right to ask unless the position is regulated by a government entity like the DOD, FAA, DOT, CPS, etc.

13. Maggie StoneApril 3,2022 at 1:47PM UTC

    First, kudos to you for the steps you have taken in your recovery and doing the work.
    With the great resignation and the circumstances surrounding the pandemic, I think gaps are becoming less of a concern. I respect your desire for transparency, but you are not required to disclose any details. If you are asked about the gap, I would say you left because of medical and personal issues but these have been addressed and you are ready to work. Instead, I would ask some questions about things that may be triggers for you, so you know if it will be healthy for you. Good luck and congratulations on your hard work.

14. Adele StootsApril 3,2022 at 1:56PM UTC

    I definitely would not put that on a job application. First impressions are everything and people are very judgmental. I would stretch the truth and say you were caring for a family member, husband allowed you to stay home and care for children or you took a year off to travel, etc. It looks better and you don’t want to let just anyone into that personal part of your life. It’s no one’s business and people are so quick to tear others down. You’re doing wonderful and should be proud of yourself but only let people in that are going to help you continue on your journey.

15. Dawn S. CrossApril 3,2022 at 2:13PM UTC

    Congratulations on focusing on you and realizing that your addiction needed to be addressed. Keep focusing on that recovery because it is a life long process.

    That being said, I would keep your recovery and the process “close to the chest” at this time. This is new and fresh to you. Take is a day at a time and when you are hired, when the right time comes along, tell the right people.

    Good luck in you continued recovery.

16. shaz1972April 3,2022 at 2:19PM UTC

    No never!!!!! I am also sober over 10 years. I have much to say & assist on this topic. if you would like to private message or email. let me know!

    your sobriety is NO ONE's business but your own.

    Once you "out" your sobriety you can never take it back. people will forever remember that no matter how many years.

17. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 3:19PM UTC

    Shaz1972, I myself would love to hear what you have to say on this topic, as I too have been working through recovery, unbeknownst to my workplace, which is currently going through a very toxic political upheaval (with me, and others, in the potential crosshairs).

18. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 3:34PM UTC

    I wouldn’t explain any gap on my resume before being asked, it’s no one’s business - especially such a short gap - and unfairly punishes women, parents and the disabled. Taking the months out of your resume will also minimize any gaps - just put the year you started and left a position. If they ask, say you were recovering from medical issues. Addiction is a medical issue and they have no right to know more than that.

19. Karen BurkeApril 3,2022 at 3:39PM UTC

    Being in recovery myself, and being a coach for women in recovery, I'd say it's 100% up to you, however since it's so new, I personally would keep it to myself. People who don't understand will be quick to judge, and when they see it hasn't been long, they might be more harsh.

    Unless it's relevant to positions you are applying to, it's not worth the drama, nor the potential relapse trigger it could prevent.

    Super proud of you for taking care of yourself and going for treatment. Sending you lots of love! ?

20. Focused721350April 3,2022 at 3:40PM UTC

    Good morning,

    First off! CONGRATS!!!! ;)

    I'm not to sure that's a great idea! I totally get it, Been in recovery many yrs. I worked very hard at it and very proud! But! Others have known to throw it in your face. Are you prepared for it and can you handle all the neg that can come about it???? I would seriously step back and really think and maybe write down all what your thinking as far as Pros and Cons..... Again!!!! CONGRATS and keep up the Great work!!!!

    Good Luck and God Bless, Ms.T ;)

21. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 4:11PM UTC

    First, congrats on your sobriety.! It’s not easy, and good for you for putting yourself first. Back when I was first starting my career I had gotten a DUI and was working on getting sober- being the medical field and doing direct patient care, I was given bad advise to “come clean” during the interview process because management would find out later. I later found out this wasn’t true and unless you get a felony DUIs don’t even come up in background checks. I am in no way excusing my behavior then and I have been sober now for 10+ years and have done a lot of my own inner work. I personally would not mention sobriety or recovery in an interview. I’m pretty sure I lost out on some opportunities by discussing instead of staying quiet. Unfortunately our society looks at addiction as a liability, even if said addiction would not effect our work performance.

22. Alicia PiconeApril 5,2022 at 6:08PM UTC

    One correction - depending on where you are, a DUI can show up on a background check.

    In NJ, for example, a DUI is not a felony or misdemeanor. It's a traffic offense. So if a CRIMINAL background check is all they do, it won't show up.

    But if they also go through DMV (as my employer does), it absolutely shows up. I am told that you have the opportunity to discuss it, because a friend got hired here with a former DUI.

    But it definitely showed up and stopped her.

23. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 5:01PM UTC

    Congrats for facing your addiction head-on and for seeking treatment. Now that your focus is on re-entering the workforce, it doesn’t add value to be so-transparent with your addiction to a potential employer. Find a general response to explain your gap. Examples, whether at, during or after Covid, faced with hectic work schedule, burnout, family issues, you decided to take a break from work. Now you’re refreshed and ready to take on the world.

24. AnonymousApril 3,2022 at 5:15PM UTC

    Dear Internet Stranger: you are a brave strong queen and I wish you all the best and know you will find the prefect spot to land. All you need to remark on when addressing your career gap (and 8 months isn't that long) is just what you said: "I was concentrating on my health" Done. In my world (healthcare) you would need to disclose if you had a DUI and were unable to renew a nursing license. But even if that is the case there are programs within state nursing associations and naturally for nurses who are seeking addiction recovery or in recovery. Best of luck to you.

25. Pattie VargasApril 3,2022 at 7:07PM UTC

    As the mom of two kids who struggled with Substance Use Disorder (one who lost his battle and one who is in recovery) I am so, so, proud of you. There is no one braver than the one who faces their disease and works at getting well!

    Now, do not disclose that you were in recovery. Stigma aside, in some cases, the employer could view you as a potential candidate for an ADA accommodation in the event you had related health issues in the future. Employers don't like to admit it but they would rather avoid that at all costs.

    Secondly, coming out of Covid, we are seeing many resumes with up to 2 year gaps on them as people left the workplace because of their own illness, the illness of a loved one or to care for their family. If they should ask about the gap, simply say it was a matter of health necessity, health related, or something equally vague.

    Again, so proud of you - keep up the good work!!!

26. AssistantApril 3,2022 at 8:56PM UTC

    Do not disclose!!

    on a separate note, I am so proud of you for putting your health first. Never give up, you ARE WORTH IT! ❤️

27. Debbie HaysApril 3,2022 at 10:38PM UTC

    You could say “Planned Career Break” instead and leave it at that with no further explanation.

    Add - • An intentional pause to focus on full-time care giving

    No one needs to know the care giving was was for you!!

28. AnonymousApril 4,2022 at 3:17AM UTC

    my god, this is brilliant.

29. AnonymousApril 4,2022 at 6:14PM UTC

    Excellent!!!

30. ngozi b-linesApril 4,2022 at 11:23AM UTC

    This is excellent news and no - I agree with Debbie Hays below

31. Jacqueline CutlerApril 4,2022 at 12:33PM UTC

    First, congratulations on your sobriety! It sounds like you are on a healthy path and that is wonderful.

    While I applaud your transparency, you can be without lying and without telling everything. This was a planned break and Debbie Hays' wording below is perfect.

32. Valerie RiegerApril 4,2022 at 1:29PM UTC

    Congratulations on your sobriety!

33. SylviaApril 4,2022 at 7:13PM UTC

    Congratulations on your ongoing recovery!

    I agree with you that addition stigma is unproductive and unhelpful and just plain dumb, and also with everyone downthread who has provided more general "focusing on my health"-type language. Sadly, the stigma is still there.

34. Alex AlexeeevJune 15,2025 at 4:16AM UTC

    That's a really brave decision to prioritize your recovery over work. Eight months shows serious commitment to getting better. The transition back to employment after focusing on sobriety can be challenging but also exciting. During treatment, did you work with counselors on relapse prevention planning for when you return to work stress? Found some useful info at https://unitedrecoveryproject.com/rehab-blog/ciwa-assessment/ about monitoring withdrawal symptoms and managing stress triggers. Having those coping strategies ready will be important when you start job searching again