Recession proof jobs

With the economy at a record low, steady employment from a recession proof industry brings peace of mind to many people. Recession proof jobs are in industries that will continue to make a profit, and need employees despite any downfall in the nation's economy. Keep this list of sixteen recession proof industries (in no particular order) in mind when searching for a employment.  

1. Police, security & criminal justice- Crime doesn't go down in a dwindling economy, and if anything may rise. Any type of employment related to dealing with preventing crime, or criminal punishment is sure to be in demand.
2. Psychology/ Counseling- Mental health awareness has been on the rise since the 90's, and many insurance policies cover mental health care and medication. Patients value their mental health, and will continue to use these services.
3. State/Federal government- True, government jobs may be difficult to snag, but landing one of these would be great because no matter what downfalls a nation encounters, government is always necessary to keep things organized and running properly.
4. Computers and internet- More and more companies are switching their databases to digital, and technology always breaks. There will always be a need for people to develop, secure and fix technology.
5. International business- Maybe our economy is failing, but the same is not necessarily true overseas.
6. Environmental activism- This a relatively new one, but "going green" is a new trend that is here to stay. There are "green" alternatives almost everywhere, from food production to electricity to construction.
7. Tobacco and alcohol- Studies show that use of vices like alcohol and tobacco increase in hard times.
8. Medical- People are still going to need both routine and emergency medical care. Any job in this field: Nurse, surgeon, billing specialist etc is sure to last.
9. Pharmaceuticals- This industry is dependent on the medical industry. For as long as sick people visit doctors, there is a need for medicines.
10. Funeral- Unfortunately, people are always going to die. A career as a funeral director or mortician is safe in this economy.
11. Debt counseling- Its crunch time when it comes to debt collection. Many are turning  to debt management and counseling right now.
12. Education- Ranging from public to private and elementary to college level there is never enough. As long as people keep procreating, a demand for teachers will always happen. Though the pay is on the low end, it is a secure job.
13. Ultra-luxury manufacturers- If you are catering to only the super wealthy (clothes, cars, homes etc.), your job should be secure. As they say, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
14. Energy- This field includes the evergrowing "alternative" and "green" energy.Think about it, people use energy for daily activities- driving, heating their homes, cooking etc. Plain and simple, no matter how bad things get, people are going to continue to use energy.
15. Substance abuse and rehabilitation programs-The demand in this industry may even see increase during the recession, as people turn to unhealthy means of dealing with problems.
16. Military- In times of war, military provides extra compensation such as sign on bonuses, education, and paid living expenses.

... Industries to avoid during an economic downturn

1. Auto sales- Major purchases have gone down, as people are focusing on nessecities. Especially new auto sales.
2. Real estate- Lets face it, this industry is failing right now. People just are not going to buy a house when they can barley afford to live.
3. Mortgages- People arn't buying houses, so the need for mortgage is elimated as well.
4. Travel- Luxuries like vacations are eliminated from many American's lifestyles.
5. Restaurants - Yep, people tend to literally tighten their belts and eat out less during an economic crunch.