Sober for 12 years, but new grad with DUI 15 years ago

MichelleRN34, ADN, RN · Dec 20, 2012

If it will show up on your background check in the employment process i would share the information. Better to be honest then seem as if your hiding anything.

Essence2 · Dec 20, 2012

My question is really this: Should I disclose my alcoholism and sobriety to a potential employer? (This seems truly mortifying to me!)

I really haven't given it a thought because I have been clean and sober for a length, and I certainly plan on staying that way. I feel that it's really not my employer's business as I feel it has no relevance. Is this too prideful of me? All of my legal troubles are far behind me and I have no license restrictions so I am not bound to disclose (not to disparage anyone who is, by any means- I completely support and encourage anyone facing their problems!!!).

Can others tell me what they have done? Give advice as to how to go about this? Is it customary to discuss ones alcoholism recovery with an interviewer?

Thanks, MichelleRN34. During my last interview, when asked about my DUI, I acknowledged I'd made a very grievous mistake and that I'd learned from it. I didn't think I should go into graphic details about the particular incident or tell them my life story. I am wondering if there is a boundary between work life and personal life, I guess. I was taught (long, long ago) that there is, and I wonder if the corporate culture has changed in that respect.

somenurse · Dec 20, 2012

I've had co-workers busted for drugs or booze-related problems. They go to some programs, and return to work.

I think, it might be helpful, if you attend some type of program, which you can then mention soon as you finish discussing you had a DUI. That might help offset the DUI some.

I'm not sure i'd bring it up until asked, but, i don't know. I think most job aps have questions for arrests and such, and then, if employer points at that and asks, then i'd discuss it? not sure, though. I'm not sure i'd self-label as an alcoholic in a job interview, but, like you said, kudos to those with that courage to be very out about it.

might be better to act like it was an isolated event, coming home from some get together, or whatever. People who are not alcoholics can have a DUI, too.

I'm pretty sure they will run a police check on you. Guess i'd try to NOT let that DUI become major focus of the interview though, act like it was mistake, you have sought and completed treatment for it, and move on to another topic.

Essence2 · Dec 21, 2012

Thanks, Jean Marie46514! I think you are right about not letting the DUI become the interview focus. If it is really what stands out most about me in an interview, the job isn't for me anyway. I can't change my past and that is just a fact.

You are also right about not everyone being alcoholic who has a DUI (I just happen to be). Yes, there are people who've made a judgement error by drinking and driving but don't have a drinking problem.