Stuck in Despair

Dear Job SOS,
I have been out of work for a number of years. I am a bookkeeper by trade but found myself suddenly unemployed, struggling financially and really depressed. That's when I started to use drugs. From there, my life went out of control. To make a long story short, I was lucky enough to clean up but as each day, week, month and year passes, I am feeling more and more scared of going back into the workforce.
I have been collecting government money and am stuck in a cycle of poverty and despair. Please help me. I don't know how long I can keep going like this.
From Stuck in Despair


Dear Stuck in Despair,
How difficult for you to live in such a state of despair and depression! At times it must feel like there is no light in sight for the future. But, if there is a will, there is a way and it sounds like you have the will to get out of this situation. It's a matter of figuring out how, formulating a plan, setting your goals and moving forward.

Because you have bookkeeping skills and experience, it's a matter of acquiring some updated training.
I recommend that you consider volunteering at a non-profit or charitable organization to help bring your work history more current and your skills up-to-date. Even though volunteer work is unpaid, it is still work! And it will help you to meet people and begin the process of networking which is one of the crucial elements to a successful job search plan.
I'd also suggest that you check out free workshops at your local library or community centre - at the very least, training which is minimal in cost.

Another option is to apply for entry level positions that provide on the job training; such as customer service.
It is important to remember and remind yourself that you and your skills are valuable. Perseverance and determination are key! You will need to take baby steps at first but if you set your goals and apply yourself, anything is possible and you will eventually see the light at the end of the job search tunnel.
From Sunny                 

SASSY: Ok Sunny, sounds great and maybe Stuck in Despair will see the light but realistically Stuck  is literally 'stuck'. It is an uphill battle to pull oneself out of an entrenched lifestyle especially if you have been depending on government money. Pretty hard to give that up! And don't forget, Stuck has been out of the workforce for a long time!
And what about relapse. Stuck is at risk of using drugs if suddenly a substantial amount of money is coming into the household. Sounds to me like Stuck needs to get counselling before any sort of job search is undertaken.


SUNNY:  I agree that there are risks attached to any decision Stuck makes but I also feel that if Stuck is ready to make a change, then it's time. Reaching out and seeking counselling is a good idea but sometimes it isn't that easy to find free counselling that doesn't have a year long waiting list. But, I do agree that it's important to talk to someone so I would suggest, if a professional is not readily accessible, that Stuck considers confiding in a friend or family member. And if Stuck is alone, without friends or family, then a crisis line is also an option.


Thanks for that suggestion Sassy - it is important to have support, in whatever form that may be! Another option is for Stuck to write in a journal, document feelings, emotions and plans. Writing is a good avenue for releasing stress. It is also a means of determining and monitoring goals.
Regarding your concern about relapse, Stuck will always be at risk for relapse. Being clean and in recovery doesn't mean one is safe from relapse. And having money is not the only trigger. Stuck needs to be ready to make life changes and success will follow. It is really up to Stuck to determine when the time is right!


SASSY:  Success comes from within. It's important that Stuck believes that success is possible and that there is light at the end of the tunnel!