Recovering Alcoholic and Student - Will an employer hold this against me?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hi Nurse Beth,

I am a nursing student and will soon begin my first job as a CNA at a local hospital. The health history/screening form inquires about any history of drug or alcohol counseling. I am a recovering alcoholic with 14 years of sobriety.

I'm concerned about disclosing this piece of information about myself. I feel strong with my recovery and am not worried about being around medications (including narcotics), but I worry that an employer will hold my history against me.

Should I disclose that I had a problem but now have 14 years of sobriety or should I deny it?

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Dear Recovering Alcoholic,

Congrats on your (ongoing) recovery. I say ongoing” because my husband is an alcoholic (with 36 years sobriety!) and he tells me that he will always be an alcoholic in recovery, and not a cured alcoholic”. He also says that the overwhelming majority of people will respond with Congratulations!” to your 14 years of sobriety.

I would not deny anything on a job application. If you misrepresent something and it is discovered later, it is grounds for termination.

14 years of sobriety is a long time and certainly speaks to your stability. This is highly unlikely to negatively affect your chances of getting the job. If the right person reads your application, it might even help you land the job!

Just be honest. You don't want to keep secrets. It's not healthy for you.

Good luck in your CNA job and in your nursing program.

Best,

Nurse Beth

[Axgrinder]

Wow Beth, your response is not only good advice, but sweet too.

I like your kindness and professionalism - that is a wonderful combination.

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Thank you :)