My addiction made me a terrible employee. I’m in recovery – but how can I find a new job with such poor references?

 I’m a recovering addict who moved to Alaska three years ago for a dream job, but didn’t leave my problem drinking behind. I blew deadlines, behaved inappropriately at work events and was a terrible employee. My boss kindly let me resign instead of firing me.

I got married, had a child and spent six months in rehab. I’ve been sober for six months. I now work in temporary sales jobs but don’t make enough to live on and moving out of state is out of the question.

Unfortunately, I can’t get an interview for an entry-level job, let alone one in my high-profile field. I’m afraid my poor references make me “radioactive.” How do I address my past problems with potential employers when I can’t even get an interview? Do I mention the situation in my cover letter? Read more here.