How To Overcome Job-Search Depression

Maintain connections with friends and family members who can offer emotional support. Talking about your challenges can provide relief and perspective. Your support system can also offer encouragement and motivation.

• Nonetheless, it is daunting to deal with constant rejection positively and stay positive.
• This week I sat down with Christy Howard, Confidence Coach to discuss this topic.
• These experts underline that job hunting can be a stressful experience, fraught with uncertainty and rejection, capable of triggering mental health issues.
• Experiencing job search fatigue
  Some people describe this as “a spark disappearing.” Others are tired of countless interviews and test tasks.
• According to the Pew Research Center, 49% of unemployed job seekers do not think they will find a job soon.
• While the government brags about job growth, much of that growth this year was in the public sector and places like manufacturing.

If you’ve experienced a prolonged job search without success, you might be familiar with job search depression. Contact us today to learn how BetterUp’s career coaching service can help you accelerate positive change professionally and personally. Remember that no matter the outcome of your job searching and the number of rejections you’ve received, your current situation doesn’t define you. By not yielding to job search anxiety, you’re facing your challenges head-on and actively working on your personal well-being.

How to Support a Loved One Through Job Search Depression

This overwhelming sense of despair magnifies when coupled with constant rejection or lack of feedback during the application process. Knowing as much as possible about the company you plan to work for is always beneficial. It will help you determine if you are a good match from the beginning. Hiring managers will also notice your genuine interest in the position if you show some knowledge about the company. ❌ Inappropriate content on your social media might repel hiring managers.

• We recommend that you find a way to occupy yourself with something until you receive your dream offer.
• Try to get more details from the employer, and under no circumstances should you take their rejection personally.
• You might not have the right skills for the job you’re applying for.
• As I embraced and trusted myself, I became confident in the knowledge I was able to find the right role – one that recognized and rewarded my contributions.
• It’s also filled with constant news of layoffs and people struggling to find a job.
• There are many reasons why looking for a job can be stressful and lead to depression.

They recommend various coping mechanisms, like setting realistic goals, practicing self-care, and engaging in regular physical activity. They also stress the importance of reaching out to professional mental health services when feelings of depression persist or intensify. Constantly searching for a job can make people anxious because of uncertainty. That is why it is essential to continue looking for a job before it affects your mental health. We recommend that you find a way to occupy yourself with something until you receive your dream offer.

Job Searching Is Hard, So Is Dealing With Depression—Here’s What to Know If You’re Doing Both

Many job seekers face a unique form of situational depression—job search depression—stemming from the challenges and pressures of seeking new employment. This article intends to cast light on this issue, explore its causes and impacts, and present sustainable strategies for overcoming it. Also setting realistic goals is key to depression and job search maintaining a positive mindset during your job search. Break down your job search process into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrate each accomplishment along the way, whether it’s submitting a well-crafted resume or landing an interview. By focusing on achievable goals, you can regain a sense of control and build momentum.

• Job search depression is a common experience that can significantly impact mental health and well-being.
• Addressing job search depression isn’t just an individual responsibility—it’s a societal one too.
• Proofread everything you send to your prospective employers.
• You can also create a list of criteria your desired company should meet.
• Errors and typos can damage their first impression of you even before they meet you in person.

Below, we will discuss the most common reasons for job search depression. Josh Scofield, SPHR has over a decade of Talent Acquisiton experience in both agency and corporate settings. He graciously contributed to this article and shared his personal job search story about life after a layoff. If you’re looking for a TA Specialist, you can connect with Josh on LinkedIn. Christy is a contributor to Optim Careers and a Confidence Coach with four decades of expeirence in a diversity of corporate experiences. Her coaching focuses on guiding people to see their true essence and building a job search strategy around that.

How to Address Why did You Leave Your Last Job Professionally

The experience can take a toll on mental health and include feelings of frustration and self-doubt. But job search depression is unique in that the feelings of depression are because of the job search process. Remember, reaching out for professional help is not a sign of weakness but rather a proactive step towards improving your well-being during this challenging time. Self-care is crucial when dealing with job search depression. Prioritize activities that promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.

If you are constantly worrying about the future, feeling fatigued, becoming socially withdrawn, … [+] getting easily irritated, losing interest in everything and ruminating over negative thoughts, it may be time to talk with someone. There is always hope for those suffering from job search depression. What’s more, maintaining a positive attitude throughout your job hunt can better your chances of landing your dream gig.

Exploring alternative career options

Just recently, she started looking for more consistent work within her field. It prompts us to take positive steps in the right direction. Review and reflect on the situation and build a personal development plan. This pressure from your family and friends can cause strained relationships and housing stress. External factors outside your control can contribute to job depression.

Josh who is in Talent Acquisition mentioned to me that his past company really prioritized mental health and this has helped him be more open to coaching. He talks to a coach/counselor at least two times per month and finds it incredibly helpful. Many of the people I spoke with mentioned that they had searched for a job for years.

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