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Did you know that 19.1% of Americans suffer from anxiety disorders? This, however, shouldn’t stop you from earning a living!
That said, however, certain challenges are associated with depression and job searching. When looking for a job, people with depression may find it difficult to stay motivated and proactive. The symptoms they exhibit, such as low energy, diminished confidence, and lack of excitement, can seem insurmountable!
Not all hope is lost, though, as certain careers are uniquely suitable for people suffering from anxiety and depression!
Common Causes for Anxiety and Depression
Past or Childhood Traumas or Experiences
Early-life stress and trauma—such as stressful events during the childhood and maturity stages—are likely to lead to anxiety and depression. Numerous studies have demonstrated a robust association between childhood trauma and depression.
However, it’s important to note that having suffered trauma as a kid does not guarantee that you will have depression as an adult. However, given the strong correlation between trauma and depression, experts concur that you could be more vulnerable.
Some of the circumstances or situations in the past that could lead to traumatic depression are:
- Loss of family or relatives
- Physical or Emotional Abuse
- Bullying
- Any form of discrimination
- Neglect
Brain Structure
Scientifically, anxiety and depression can be caused by the brain structure of a person. It is particularly true for depression if there is a decrease in activity in the front lobe of the brain. However, it is unclear if this happens before or after the beginning of depression symptoms.
For instance, the brain’s deep structure, the almond-shaped amygdala, is thought to serve as a communication center for the areas responsible for processing and interpreting incoming sensory information. It can cause a fear or anxiety response by signaling to the remainder of the brain that there is a threat.
Brain Chemistry
Another known cause for anxiety and depression could be the neurotransmitters found in the brain. These are the molecules present in the organ that signals how the body should respond. And the two neurotransmitters that can influence reactions are dopamine and serotonin. These two are known to impact the mood swings of a depressed person.
Dopamine increases motivation for learning and pleasure. On the other hand, serotonin influences learning, mood, and happiness. It is said that increasing serotonin levels is effective in combating anxiety and depression. There are different sources of imbalance for each of them. It was noted, however, that trauma and stress are linked to dopamine dysfunction.
Physical or Mental Problems
Anxiety can sometimes be exacerbated or caused by other health conditions, which can be in the form of physical or mental. For instance, a critical physical illness can trigger anxiety and make someone constantly feel worried and depressed. Furthermore, several mental problems like anger, bipolar disorder, hoarding, or loneliness can all lead to depression.
Medicines and Drugs
Anxiety and depression can be exacerbated by certain medications or alcohol abuse. Some psychiatric medicines, for instance, can have adverse effects which trigger anxiety and depression. A number of issues might arise from adjusting the body’s hormone levels, especially when drugs have an impact on the central nervous system.
Research indicates that the onset of depressive symptoms is strongly correlated with changes in hormone levels. Hence, it’s crucial to seek professional help once these side effects occur after taking specific medications.
Pregnancy
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for some pregnant women to feel depressed. Sometimes, it happens during post-partum. It is due to the fact that stress, hormonal changes, and the physical and emotional strains of pregnancy can bring on perinatal depression. However, these negative emotions can be overcome through counseling and a normalized routine and lifestyle after giving birth and adjusting your body and emotions again.
Lack of Nutrients and Poor Diet
The body needs enough nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, in order to function healthily. There are some of these nutrients found in specific foods that can boost brain health, which then impacts mood and emotions. According to the National Institutes of Health, dietary deficiencies in vitamins such as Zinc, vitamin B, Vitamin D, Protein, Iron, Calcium, and Magnesium. This can trigger depressive symptoms.
Season Change
Serotonin levels might decline as a result of less sunshine, which can lead to depression. An alteration in the season can throw off the body’s melatonin balance, which affects mood and sleep cycles. Lack of sunshine exposure can interfere with your circadian clock, which controls mood-related hormones and other bodily processes. To treat SAD, a medical professional could suggest light treatment. Some SAD sufferers observe that their depressive symptoms usually get better in the spring and summer.
Tips to Mediate Anxiety and Depression
Walk and meditate.
One surefire way to combat anxiety and depression is by moving physically and proactively. A healthy exercise is to walk and meditate while doing so. A productive and healthful method to unwind is to combine meditation with a stroll. Whether you’re walking in a mall, a city sidewalk, or a peaceful forest, you can apply this walking strategy anywhere. But it would be better to walk in nature and be able to think deeper. Observe what you see, hear, and smell around you.
Read.
Reading can help ease your tension and make you feel calmed down and relaxed. Aside from boosting your intellect and knowledge bank, it helps you focus and become more empathetic. It can lengthen your life, lessen stress, and enhance mental wellness. You can develop new skills through reading that will benefit your career and interpersonal interactions.
Practice breathing techniques.
Because breathing is an innate function of the body, this approach is ideal for beginners. Give your breathing your whole focus. When you breathe in and out through your nostrils, pay close attention to how it feels and sounds. Inhale gently and deeply. Keep your attention on your breathing whenever your thoughts wander. This practice can also be done while you perform yoga exercises. Take part in deliberate breathing exercises and postures. Instead of focusing too match on your form, it’s best to be aware of your inhale and exhale.
Consider repeating a mantra.
Researchers have studied the impact of mantras on the brain extensively. They discovered that when we recite mantras, specific brain regions light up. Peace of mind comes from mantras. It is a constructive frequency that clears our minds of negativity. Whatever mantra you choose, it does not matter if it is religious or secular. Some mantras can positively impact your life.
Pray.
Another effective way to overcome anxiety and depression is to pray. You have the option of praying in your own words or reading others’ written prayers. No matter what your religion is, there’s a sense of peace that comes with prayers and deepening your faith.
Get professional help.
The next wise course of action to treat depression and anxiety is to get in touch with a mental health specialist or other doctors who treat anxiety and depression. If you have a regular clinician, they can recommend a therapist. In order to assist in ruling out underlying medical issues, clinicians may also request blood, urine, and other lab tests based on your symptoms.
A number of medical disorders, such as thyroid issues, can cause melancholy and other mood swings. Get ready to answer a set of questionnaires that the doctor uses as the basis for diagnosis and treatment.
Join peer-to-peer communities.
Some communities are established to provide free online peer-to-peer advice and support to anyone afflicted with mental health issues. This is a great platform for depressed or anxious people who would want to interact with like-minded others, get support, and exchange stories.
There is power in connection, and nobody should go through something alone. These are free, amiable, secure, and encouraging communities where people may exchange knowledge and stories with each other and their families.
By joining these peer-to-peer communities, you may initiate conversations by asking a question or sharing a post about your journey, connect with other individuals living through similar conditions like depression and anxiety, and participate in existing discussions.
Maintain a healthy diet.
As mentioned, a poor diet can lead to nutrient deficiency, which can impact your mental and physical health. Hence, it’s paramount to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Ensure to include fruits and veggies that are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Conversely, try to stay away from processed foods, food with rich sugar content and fat.
Perform daily exercises.
Instead of aiming for perfect exercises, set modest daily objectives and focus on consistency every day. Taking a daily stroll of fifteen to twenty minutes is preferable to saving up your energy for a three-hour fitness marathon for the weekend.
Numerous scientific studies indicate that frequency is the most crucial factor. Look for interesting or exciting ways to exercise. You can either perform exercises alone in the comforts of your home or be surrounded by fellow fitness buffs in commercial gyms.
Establish (and keep!) strong relationships.
Finally, it’s human nature not to live alone. After all, it’s true that the adage says that no man is an island. It’s crucial to share good relationships with others. If you live with mental health conditions, good relationships can make a big difference in your outlook and emotional well-being.
Strong emotional support is something that your close family and friends can sustain you with. When you have someone you can trust in your life, whether or not you want to talk about your symptoms, you will often feel less alone.
Take medications.
This tip should be followed when it’s already the last resort. Anxiety and depression symptoms can be reduced with psychotropic medication. A doctor or psychiatrist usually recommends therapy along with medication because it doesn’t address the cause of those symptoms.
Depending on your psychiatrist, they can prescribe anti-depression pills. However, you need to discuss with your doctor if you ever experience any adverse effects with these medications.
20 Best Careers for People with Anxiety and Depression
Computer Programmer
Become a computer programmer if you love math and computers but prefer being alone. This career is well-paying and is best suited for those who have issues with their mental health. Freelancers can work on their schedules as computer programmers. It is never a problem for software companies to hire programmers, especially if you are good at working in a team.
Some of the programming languages that you need to master as a computer programmer are C++, HTML, Python, and JavaScript. If you pick up a handful of these languages, you may specialize in computer coding and programming, which will enable you to become an industry expert quickly.
Many computer programming jobs offer remote work-from-home setups, so this is good for people who easily get anxious or nervous in traditional office settings.
It’s important to prepare yourself in this field by partaking in computer programming internships. For many programmers, the typical path entails working for a few years in a big software firm before venturing into project management, launching a startup, doing remote freelancing, or providing consulting services to other businesses. Just a few years of experience can help you identify your specialization and adjust your work to meet your mental health needs.
Online Tutor
For those who love teaching, it’s still good to be an online tutor despite your bouts of anxiety and depression episodes. If you enjoy becoming a teacher but feel nervous about taking the podium in front of a whole class, an online tutoring job is more suitable for you. By tutoring small groups of kids, you might be able to share your passion for learning with them.
Tutoring isn’t just for solving adolescent math and chemistry problems. You can also work as a teacher of foreign languages to adults or as a trainer for groups of workers going through training courses.
Geoscientist
If you suffer from anxiety but love the study of the earth, it’s a wise choice to become a licensed geoscientist. In the large field of geosciences, there are many scientific disciplines. As a geoscientist, you will be tasked to do a lot of observations, research, and perform experiments on soils and other geoscientific studies. You are expected to be well-versed in utilizing geoscientific tools such as microscopes, remote sensors, X-ray tools, and seismographs. Because of the low-stress work environment, people with anxiety and depression issues are well fit for these jobs.
Entrepreneur
You might want to think about starting your own business if you are unable to locate a position that you feel will provide adequate modifications. Starting a business might be quite expensive in the beginning, yet the process itself could inspire you. Being an entrepreneur is well-suited for depressed people as they don’t have to undergo pressures and social work environments.
It doesn’t have to be a big business or need leasing a storefront; it might be a modest internet venture or something that concentrates on a job you can complete at home.
Nowadays, eCommerce businesses are on the rise. As long as you have great marketing and sales skills, you can flourish and expand your business venture in multiple markets and platforms.
Librarian
If you’re a bookworm and want to delve into the world of literature, working as a librarian is a great work option for you.
There are many various roles to consider, and working at a library may offer an amazing opportunity to change the world. When you read for pleasure and to escape from your thoughts, you might learn new things or appreciate art.
Reading can also be a terrific way to unwind. As mentioned earlier, this is an effective way to remain calm and relaxed. Being a librarian entails being surrounded by books and book enthusiasts. You may locate resources to solve problems, assist adults and children with research, or help them discover their next favorite book.
Writer or Journalist
Depressed people usually have a lot of talent to write and express their innate thoughts. Like graphic designers and painters, writers like the opportunity to work on a variety of projects in a variety of environments.
Hours of intense concentration are usually needed for writing, which can help keep unwanted or intrusive ideas at bay. If you want to be near others and have access to Wi-Fi, you can also set up and work in any coffee shop or other location if you possess a laptop.
Fortunately, there are many jobs available on internet job sites if writing is your passion or inclination. These tasks might include transcription, editing, and copywriting. You may work for customers you love, set your hours, and operate from home or a coworking location with success.
We think this is one of the greatest careers for persons with depression because of these advantages.
Landscape Artist
Landscape artists need to use a lot of their creativity and a green thumb. Studies have shown that gardening lowers stress levels and improves mood. Planting, tending, harvesting, and caring for plants is very satisfying. The benefits of landscaping routines include improving mental health and providing structure to your days.
Routines in gardening and landscaping, such as watering and weeding, can be soothing and reduce stress effectively. As a landscape artist, you’ll constantly work in greeneries and be surrounded by nature. Stay away from hectic and toxic people and environments!
Data Entry Specialist
Data entry jobs demand the ability to use a computer at a minimum. The job involves gathering information from one place and organizing it into a different database. Even while some individuals might find it boring, the task is often simple, easy, and done alone in a quiet environment. The work requirement and setting don’t entail stress and pressure, making it prevalent for people suffering from anxiety and depression.
Data entry professionals would have to type data into spreadsheets and platforms. Your time at the computer will be largely devoted to ensuring the data you submit is accurate. You can find employment in full-time and part-time positions.
In fact, you can also work as a freelancer and accept data entry per project. Because data input is independent, it’s an excellent career option for those with depression.
Graphic Designer
Those with anxiety disorders may find that a career as a graphic designer is less stressful if they have creative talent and computer proficiency. A lot of the time, graphic artists work alone and from home.
Although interacting with clients, employers, or coworkers will be necessary, this is not the primary responsibility of the position. Finishing a design project and delivering it to someone else also brings about a great sense of fulfillment.
Accountant
Dealing with the intricate laws of arithmetic may be gratifying for persons with social anxiety, even though working with numbers can be a nightmare for some people. Working as an accountant, especially operating independently, is suitable for people who suffer from forms of depression and anxiety.
They can handle the tasks without socializing and being exposed to changing environments. In spite of the fact that a college degree is required to work as an accountant, teamwork may not always be necessary in the workplace, depending on the nature of the position.
Dietitian
The maintenance of one’s physical and mental health is greatly influenced by diet and nutrition. The National Institutes of Health states that there is a link between eating behaviors and attention, mood, behavior, and anxiety issues at all life stages. As a dietitian, you will discover that good nutrition may help you manage your own anxiety and aid others.
Creating meal planning, conducting nutritional exams, coaching clients on appropriate food, and providing instructional materials are all common tasks associated with the work that involves assessing patients for nutrition risk.
As a dietician, you can practice in various settings such as clinics, hospitals, fitness gyms, and personal practice.
Data Transcriptionist
A transcriptionist listens to recorded audio recordings and writes them into a text format, much like in certain data entry occupations. This line of work necessitates accuracy, discretion, speed, efficiency, and a great sense of hearing, in addition to other qualities.
Since you don’t have to be exposed to people with this job, you’ll be solely focused on listening to audio recordings and making sure to transcribe them accurately. Transcribers need to be well-trained and patient. Nonetheless, the very flexible nature of these positions should be advantageous for someone suffering from depression since you may locate remote employment that lets you choose your hours.
Additionally, you could transcribe audio on legal, medical, or other subjects; who knows, maybe you might make them enjoyable to listen to.
Artist
A job as a fine artist can be a wonderful fit for you if you have innate creative talent. There are many possible work positions for you as an artist. For instance, you can be a painter, an illustrator, or a sculptor. You may join galleries, exhibits, or auction your works.
Making creative art may be really restorative. Research has demonstrated the efficacy of art therapy in mitigating symptoms of anxiety, enhancing life satisfaction, and facilitating emotional regulation. The majority of painters work for themselves in private studios.
A few additionally provide art instruction or run seminars and classes in the arts. Illustrators can work for movie studios, publishing houses, advertising and branding firms, and fashion corporations.
Fitness Coach
One best jobs for people experiencing depression or anxiety is to become a fitness coach. You’ll be able to offer individuals or groups individualized training plans, encouragement, and guidance on a variety of activities.
As a fitness coach, you can work in various settings like a gym or fitness studio or become a one-on-one coach in your client’s preferred place.
Fitness coaches will always be in high demand as more people become conscious of their health and physique. Training and education requirements vary by specialty, but most employers prefer to hire individuals who have certifications or relevant education.
Historian
Historians study and interpret past events, such as wars, military conflicts, evolution, periods of unrest, and discoveries. Researching recorded histories, examining written documents and artifacts, and conserving historical resources are some examples of the types of work that may be done.
Historians are not required to socialize with a lot of people. Typically, historians are employed by educational institutions, governmental bodies, historical societies, museums, NGOs, research groups, and consulting businesses.
It is the perfect occupation for people who become anxious because most of their work is done in a calm, low-pressure setting.
Park Ranger
If you love people-watching and hanging out in the park, it’s a wonderful idea to work as a park ranger. Park rangers are adept at different flora and fauna, survival techniques, camping, and other topics related to the natural environment.
Additionally, it’s the ideal employment for those who enjoy being outside and assisting others in making the most of their environment.
The fact that this employment allows you a healthy mix of alone and teamwork time is an additional perk. The majority of park ranger jobs don’t require formal education, and you might be able to pick up useful skills while working there.
Driver
Some people find it relaxing and calm to drive on the road for hours. If you have a strong desire to travel, becoming a truck driver might be a great career choice. Professional truck drivers are in great demand across many different businesses.
You get to travel to new locations and work alone most of the time. Your work doesn’t require you to interact a lot with people, which is great for those having issues with anxiety. Numerous jobs are available, ranging from driving road trains to operating forklifts.
Massage Therapist
Another career that doesn’t require formal education or a college degree is to become a massage therapist. They may undergo hands-on training for some months to years, and it’s a great fit for those who want peaceful working environments.
In order to relieve pain and release tension, massage therapists work with the body’s soft tissues and muscles. Depending on the kind of massage they do, they could also use calming music and essential oils to help customers unwind. Those who prefer working in a calm and serene atmosphere may find this to be the perfect position.
Veterinarian
Being surrounded by animals can seem therapeutic for some people. In fact, if you love the presence of pets more than people, it’s a great idea to pursue a career in veterinary care. In animal clinics and hospitals, veterinarians provide care for the animals. You may carry out a range of duties, like treating pet illnesses and performing surgeries.
One of the most satisfying and exciting aspects of the job might be giving animals the essential treatment they need to recover their health. While you’ll be required to interact with the pet’s owners and parents, you’ll have fewer social interactions, making it an ideal job for those suffering from depression and anxiety.
Medical Technologist
Medical technologists, sometimes referred to as clinical laboratory technologists or scientists, obtain samples of blood, urine, and tissue from patients and examine them for anomalies. They could also work on studies using blood samples intended for transfusions.
If you don’t mind studying human samples and deriving conclusions based on these tests, it’s a great job to be a medical technologist. It’s best for those who want to constantly work in the laboratory with smaller crowds of people and patients. You’ll be at the back door and engage only with colleagues who are also fellow medical technologists.
Since your daily work requires you to conduct a lot of tests, these are enough challenges to keep you busy and don’t think of other things that can make you anxious.
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