I had to go to a wine and cheese party when I was unemployed and it was one where I barely knew anybody, so everyone was asking me what I do. I just said I'm an accountant. Then when they asked what firm I was with, I just laughed and said, actually I'm taking some time off right now. I tried to say it in a positive voice and spin it like a positive rather than feeling bad about being unemployed due to addiction / mental health issues.

It's all in how you present it.