Job Readiness

Several decades ago, an addict would never have dreamed of being treated with respect and compassion.  They would not have imagined that a treatment program could teach them valuable skills for functioning in the world as a sober, responsible citizen.  The terms Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Life Skills Training, or Job Readiness didn’t exist.  It’s too bad those people were treated so horribly and robbed of the chance to live up to their true potential.  With that in mind, how do we avoid making those same mistakes today?  Also, how do we ensure that addicts are given a fair chance at living a productive, happy life?  First, let’s take a look at how addiction treatment has improved since then.  Then, we will explore some of the options available to addicts today.

Changing the Stigma About Addictions

Addiction treatment through the years has been a process of trial and error in some respects.  In the past, addicts were placed in cold, clinical mental institutions to “dry out.”  They suffered withdrawals without any comfort or supervision.  These individuals were viewed as morally and mentally flawed.  The  consensus was that they should be punished for their failings.  But, as time progressed, the medical community began to recognize the fact that this approach to treatment was ineffective.  One of the most significant advances in addiction treatment came when Benjamin Rush, one of America’s founding fathers, determined that alcoholism was not a moral failing, but a result of the damaging effects of alcohol on the brain and body.  That was the beginning of a profound transformation in the field of addiction treatment.

Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding addiction hasn’t been completely eliminated.  Many people today still view addicts as irresponsible, weak, and morally deficient.  But, much progress has been made, and thousands of addicts have overcome their addictions and are now enjoying healthy, rewarding lives.  Their success is a product of their personal commitment in addition to the skills and guidance they received in rehab.  So, let’s take a look at how rehab programs are contributing to so many successful recoveries.

The New, Improved Approach to Addiction Treatment

Today, an addicted individual has thousands of options to choose from when they are ready to enter detox and rehab.  Most treatment providers offer comprehensive, flexible programs that can be adapted to each person’s unique needs.  Depending on a person’s financial status, there are upscale, private facilities available.  Many facilities accept insurance or can make financial arrangements.  Also, there are government-funded programs for those who cannot pay.  The significant advantage of this new approach to treatment is that addicts are getting the help they need to overcome addiction and become an asset to society rather than a liability.  

The goal of treatment programs is to help clients get back to living their life rather than just existing in a drug-induced fog.  This can be accomplished by offering a wide range of activities and classes that focus on getting specific results.  Each facility has their particular philosophies and offers different options.  But, some of the options available in the majority of professional rehab programs today are as follows:

• Detoxification
• Life Skills
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Communication Skills
• Job Preparedness
• Group and Individual Counseling
• Physical Fitness
• Music and Art Therapy
• Individual and Group Counseling
• SMART Recovery
• Faith-Based Programs

These components address specific aspects of preparing the individual to go back into society with the skills and confidence to succeed. Addiction is a multifaceted process that gradually robs a person of the ability to interact socially and express their feelings or emotions.  Over time, memory loss steals their ability to pay bills, maintain a household, or keep a job.  

Benefits of Job Readiness Training in Rehab

If a recovering addict is unable to perform basic daily tasks, their chance of relapse is increased dramatically.  For that reason, one of the most crucial skills the person needs is the ability to find a job and keep it.  Without a job, the rent won’t get paid,  There’s no food in the cabinets.  Soon enough, the recovering addict decides this is just too much to handle, and relapse looms.  But, studies conducted by addiction specialists show that if a recovering addict has gainful employment, they are more likely to remain abstinent.

Job Readiness training teaches clients how to get a job and how to perform their duties well.  It also fosters some of the essential principles that are valued in the workplace such as:

• Working as part of a team.
• Setting goals and reaching them.
• Problem-solving techniques.
• Being a self-starter.
• Effective communication skills.
• Taking pride in being a hard worker.

The sense of accomplishment achieved in the workplace can extend to other aspects of the person’s life.  Improved self-image goes a long way in keeping a person drug-free.  

Restoring Hope for the Future in Young Addicts

Another benefit of job readiness training is the effect it has on young addicts.  These individuals began using drugs before they learned the basic skills for finding a job, interviewing, resume preparation, etc.  Their life has been put on hold because of the drugs.  Without the ability to find and keep a job, many of these young people end up homeless.  They often resort to prostitution, burglary, and other crimes to support themselves and their habit.  Gone are the dreams they once had for their future.  To these kids, the future consists only of getting their next fix.  It’s sad that they can’t recognize the person they once were.  Once upon a time, he or she looked forward to tomorrow with anticipation for a wonderful life.  Now, even if they get off the drugs, they don’t have the necessary skills to function in daily life.  But, this is not a hopeless situation.  In the right treatment program, these young people can learn the skills they need for reclaiming their place in society.

Finding the Right Program for Your Needs

Addicts today have many resources for overcoming addiction and rebuilding their lives.  Fortunately, the treatment providers now know that addiction is not a matter of choice.  They realize that no one purposely decides to become an addict.  With that in mind, the programs offer a structured curriculum to help an addict gain self-respect, improve their attitude about life in general, and cultivate a set of guiding principles that will serve them in all aspects of life.  

If you’re evaluating treatment centers and are overwhelmed by the hundreds of choices, don’t despair. There is another way to go about making this decision.  At New Beginnings, we want to see you claim victory over substance abuse.  Our team has the expertise to find the right treatment program that can address each aspect of addiction.   

When you call our toll-free number one of our representatives will answer any questions you may have. We can conduct a confidential assessment to determine the best treatment approach for your level of addiction and any co-occurring health problems. We know that to overcome addiction a person must become stronger mentally, physically, and spiritually.  Also, we will make sure you understand the different methodologies and each option we present to you will be carefully selected based on your needs.  Let us help you make the right choice for your new beginning.