Exploring occupational challenges among individuals with substance use disorders: a qualitative study

Background Identifying and understanding the factors influencing employment and the career-related challenges encountered during substance use is crucial for developing effective interventions. This study examines these challenges among individuals with a history of addiction.Methods This qualitative study employed reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach. The study population comprised individuals with a history of substance use who had completed rehabilitation at least one year prior, residing in Shahrekord, Iran, in 2021. Fifteen participants were recruited through purposive sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews.Results Thematic analysis yielded four overarching categories: behavioral problems, psychological problems, social limitations, and career challenges. The behavioral problems category included destructive workplace reactions, compulsive substance-seeking behaviors, addiction-related conduct, and underutilization of talents. Psychological problems encompassed a sense of meaninglessness in life and various mental health disorders. Social limitations were characterized by impaired interpersonal relationships, while career challenges involved reduced work efficiency, poverty, and job loss.Conclusion Individuals with substance use disorders face multifaceted career challenges during periods of substance consumption. Addiction adversely affects behavioral, psychological, and social domains, leading to harmful workplace conduct, emotional distress, disrupted social interactions, and serious occupational consequences such as unemployment, poverty, and disability.