Improve Job Opportunities for At-Risk Individuals
Return to Opioid Top-Level Strategy Map or Zoom Map (Minimize Desire to Misuse Opioids)
Background
When people don't have job opportunities, the likelihood of drug abuse increases. Therefore, part of a comprehensive strategy should include specific efforts to create job opportunities for people in order to strengthen their support systems and prevent them from abusing drugs if they do not have a job. By targeting employment opportunities (and connections to those jobs) to people who might otherwise begin to abuse drugs, the health of the community can increase.
The effect that a job has on mental health is what makes it such a important factor in prevention. Cultivating a positive support system and a positive frame of mind is essential. In a population 18 and older it was shown that 10% more people who were unemployed used illegal substances in the past month then those that had a full time job [1] This is because of the general financial hardships that those who are unemployed face. This can create a stronger drive to escape which can lead to drug abuse.
- Opioid misuse and use disorders were more common among people with lower family incomes, without health insurance or without jobs.
- In the United States, 18.1% of unemployed adults use illicit drugs – that’s more than double the percentage of users who are employed full-time.
- States with higher unemployment rates tend to have higher rates of drug use.
- After the economic downturn in 2008, marijuana and other drug use increased as unemployment increased. This pattern is reflected in every age group except for the elderly.
- When teens (14-18) and young adults (18-25) are unemployed, the likelihood to abuse drug increases.
Tools & Resources
AddictionCenter.com
Provides useful tips for those who are fresh out of recovery or struggling with substance abuse issues
Careeronestop.org
A service provided by the US department of labor that helps people find jobs based on their location TR - Improve Job Opportunities
Promising Practices
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SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT: [fill out table below]
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