new in recovery

Yes, it will be difficult, but you cannot give up. Once you get the go ahead to return to work, sit down and write down a plan. List all of the hospitals, nursing homes and places that are within driving distance from you. Then, get up, get dressed, and hit the ground running.

The best way to get a job while you're in a peer assistance program is to go to the places and meet the managers. Show them that you're a real person. You probably won't get the first job you interview for, and if you are like me.... I was NEVER turned down for a job, until I entered my state's peer assistance program. The first one really hit me hard.

I went on so many interviews and I was turned down so many times that I lost count. At the time I was so frustrated. But looking back, it really gave me a lot of experience with interviews. Now, I'm damn good at being interviewed for a job. After I left the program, I have never been turned down for a job since.

Just stay focused. This forum is a real good place for support from your recovering nursing peers. Keep coming back!

Congrats on having the courage to begin the journey of recovery. There are jobs where having license restrictions, i.e., narcotics restrictions will make it difficult to find a job. Coincidentally, having those jobs when in early recovery aren't conducive to achieving a solid base of recovery and learning and practicing the skills we need to maintain and strengthen that recovery.

There are some jobs that won't be hindered by these license restrictions...phone triage, insurance review, clinical research associate (make sure clinical research is following protocols and that all forms and data meet FDA protocols/policies, etc.). You might want to consider working in the substance abuse//addiction field. This might also be a time to work in an area outside health care. Broaden your horizons so to speak.

Regardless of what job you do find, it needs to be one supportive of your early recovery efforts. Without recovery, nothing else will matter.

Good luck and keep checking back. We like to see how our family is doing!

Big hugs from Cincinnati!!!!

Jack

Dear nancynurse, Congrates on having the courage to get the help you needed!! I myself have 6 mths left on my 3 yr contract. I am grateful for the support and guidance the program gave me. Finding a job will be tough,but never give up! Go to meetings for healthcare professionals only, you'll be amoung peers and will fing help in finding as job. Good luck to you and God bless.

Hey nancynurse - My name is Anne and I am an addict. (I have almost reached my 10 year sobriety anniversary, and I think that phrase will be permanently etched in my memory!) I feel for you having to get out doing the job search thing. As it has been said, it will be difficult but not impossible. Please know you have inherited a large family here. We will keep you in our prayers.

Anne