There are a lot of decisions to be made after attending rehab.
Do you stay in the same town? How many of your old friends can you keep? Are you content with your job? Do you need to go back to school? What makes you happy? What kind of activities do you enjoy? What new things would you like to learn?
For some people, it’s the right choice to start with a blank slate—and Los Angeles can be a great place to do that. It’s the second largest metropolitan area in the United States and, unlike New York City, it’s got warm sandy beaches, hiking trails, biking paths along the ocean and a relaxed, yet exciting vibe. Like New York, it’s also got a thriving art community, interesting neighborhoods and world class restaurants.
Jobs for Recovering Addicts in Los Angeles
There’s certainly no shortage of job opportunities in Los Angeles and, for many people, it’s just a matter of getting out there and finding them.
But for those who have a record, finding someone who will take a chance on you can be hard.
The good news is that there are groups dedicated to helping people with a past start fresh. Check out America In Recovery and the National Hire Network—two non-profits dedicated to helping find jobs for recovering addicts and those with criminal records.
There is also one company in particular that’s made it a mission to help those with severe barriers to employment. Isidore Electronics Recycling is a Los Angeles startup that employs people with criminal records to recycle electronic waste.
Homeboy Industries is a nonprofit that works with previously incarcerated men and women to offer job training, tattoo removal, counseling and legal services.
Los Angeles Support Groups and More
With nearly 20 million people living in the Los Angeles area, there are obviously lots of options for meetings. You can find a list of AA meetings here and NA meetings here.
But there’s more to life than meetings, especially when you’re living in one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Hit Chinatown on a summer night for a great meal and festival atmosphere, or join a biking club to get outside more. See if you can make it across the giant rings right on the beach in Santa Monica. Go for a hike. Go to The Getty Museum to see a Degas, Manet, Monet or van Gogh.
And that’s just a tiny percentage of what’s available in L.A. If you’re interested in discovering what you’re passionate about, whether it’s great food, theater or nature, this is one of the best places in the world to do it.
About The Raleigh House
The Raleigh House is a residential treatment center located in Denver that believes addiction isn’t just a physical problem. Our master’s level trained therapists get to the root cause of addiction and will help you develop a strategy to manage and enjoy life without drugs or alcohol. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about the treatment programs at The Raleigh House.