Improve Job Opportunities for At-Risk Individuals

Introductory Paragraph

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. 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. This is because of the general financial hardships that those who are unemployed face. This can create a stronger drive for escapism which can lead to drug abuse.

Sustaining recovery often means rebuilding lives. Many people in early recovery need assistance with basic job training skills and making plans to further their education. Others may have lost their professional license and ability to practice their former profession (e.g. nursing, stock broker, commercial truck driver, etc.). However, virtually all people in recovery face the additional challenge of stigma which is frequently associated with addiction -- no matter their efforts to address their health problems and stabilize their lives.

These issues become compounded when the individual has a criminal record. Helping those in recovery access opportunities for education, job training, and employment greatly enhances their ability to support themselves and their dependents, while also building self-worth and a sense of accomplishment. These latter attributes have come to be known as important elements of recovery capital, which collectively has been shown to incentivize sustained recovery while reducing the likelihood of relapse. Yet, for those with criminal histories, there are often systematic barriers and obstacles.

Treatment providers, recovery community organizations, and employers can all provide critical assistance in two primary areas: 1) helping individuals with SUD find treatment and long-term recovery supports and 2) assisting those new to recovery but ready for employment with access to job training, skill development, and identification of employment prospects. Employees in recovery have been shown to be loyal, productive members of the workforce and key assets to employers. Helping individuals secure the necessary treatment and/or recovery support which helps them sustain recovery, may involve the upfront costs of treatment and recovery support services, but ultimately serves to integrate them into a healthier lifestyle, with stable housing, gains in healthcare and social connections, and improvements to their employment and financial situations.