You might be a brilliant project manager with all the right certifications and experience. But if you apply for a job you’re not qualified for, you’re probably not going to get it. Another 41% say they’ve had more conflicts or arguments than usual with family and friends.

You might also want to seek out an online support group—some groups are designed for the long-term unemployed or for people diagnosed with clinical depression. You’ve probably heard the advice to “treat the job search like a job” and this approach can be a good one for your mental health. Looking for a job can be a challenge, even in the best circumstances. When you put in a lot of time and effort and don’t immediately see the results you hoped for, you may start to feel discouraged, anxious, or even depressed. Exercising and staying active is a great way to release some of the stress caused by unemployment. Platforms like My Fitness Pal and Endomondo can help you keep track of your progress and provide training tips.

Job Search Depression

After graduating from uni this was the ONLY good company that accepted me. Now with experience and all feel like nothing has changed, no one is getting back to me. I’m applying to a lot of places even though if I could I would rather change careers tbh . Recent changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for people with both physical and mental health conditions. The biggest concern are the effects of being unemployed and depressed on my mental and physical behaviors.

• He is worried that being unemployed will make him feel worse.
• Because depression can come and go in waves for some people, it’s possible you’ll convince yourself you’re past this most recent bout of symptoms in light of the excitement you feel.
• If you don’t get that dream job you applied for, have a plan ready to pick yourself up.
• Remember that even if you’re doing the right things, finding a job can be a struggle.
• To prospective employers, job seekers with a positive attitude appear more capable.

By not yielding to job search anxiety, you’re facing your challenges head-on and actively working on your personal well-being. Staying organized will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed with the job search process. It’ll also help you keep all of your priorities and responsibilities in balance. The job market is always competitive, but the global coronavirus pandemic has made finding jobs even more difficult for some people. We will feel the economic impact of COVID-19 for years to come. You might not feel like you’ll be in a position to have options to decline an offer that isn’t the perfect fit for you.

How to Support a Loved One Through Job Search Depression

A key tip for how to deal with job depression is to maintain perspective. Keep in mind that while your job search may take some time, it won’t last forever. If you’re searching for a job because you’ve been laid off, it can feel like a real blow to your self-esteem. Being too hard on yourself can hinder the job search process. A lack of self-compassion and being critical of your flaws prevents others from seeing your positive attributes. Follow these steps in order, and you’ll start to see the light at the end of the job search tunnel.

To tap into my creative and passionate side, instead of my moodiness. I know I can find the right fit — we’ll see how long it takes. Things I used to love doing, such as reading or cooking or walking the dog, becomes a drain on my mind. To get noticed, your resume must be clean, up-to-date, and succinct. If you need inspiration, there are some great resources online for resume formats and templates, including Workopolis. “I am worried that I am going to be unable to get a job as I do not like crowds and I am hyper vigilant,” said the Hampshire resident, who suffers nightmares, flashbacks and sleep problems.

The Professional Perspective: What the Experts Say

If you don’t feel comfortable doing that, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional who can help guide you in your work relationship. AADA also offers a member-based text support group called Health Unlocked. Here, you and your family can share experiences depression and job search via online chat threads. AADA calls it a safe, supportive, and friendly place to share information about anxiety, depression, and related disorders. By mid-2020, almost half of workers in the United States were reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety.