Ideal professions for individuals coping with anxiety: Important insights to consider
In today's fast-paced world, finding a job that not only provides financial stability but also supports mental health is crucial. For individuals living with anxiety disorders, choosing the right career can significantly impact their day-to-day life.
A variety of roles offer structure, independence, and flexibility, which can help manage anxiety symptoms effectively. These jobs include analyst positions (data analyst, business analyst), research jobs, computer and IT roles (software engineer, web developer, UX designer), writing and creative jobs (novelist, video editor, graphic designer), and engineering roles. Graphic design, for instance, can provide an outlet for creativity and help disconnect from stress, while roles such as a lab technician or a veterinary assistant offer a methodical nature that can provide a sense of control [1].
When selecting a career, it's essential to consider the work environment. Roles that reduce exposure to high-stress, high-pressure, or unpredictable settings can be beneficial. Positions with minimal or controlled social interaction may help reduce anxiety triggers. Jobs that allow for flexible hours or remote work can enable better management of anxiety symptoms. Structured tasks and predictable workflows reduce uncertainty that may worsen anxiety [1][2].
Supportive management, understanding colleagues, and workplace accommodations are also crucial. Setting personal boundaries, such as limiting workload and work hours, can prevent burnout and heightened anxiety. Incorporating relaxation or coping techniques learned through therapy into the workday can improve workplace functioning [1][2].
Strategies to manage anxiety at work can include recognising symptoms, practising time management, setting boundaries, and using employer resources and benefits. Remote and flexible roles may help reduce stress and improve productivity by avoiding potential sources of anxiety [3].
Evidence suggests higher stress, depression, or anxiety rates in professional occupations such as health professionals, teaching and other educational professionals, protective service occupations, and customer service occupations [4]. However, entry-level roles like janitor or warehouse worker, which offer routine and minimal social interaction, may be suitable for those with social anxiety [5].
If people are experiencing trouble identifying suitable careers, they may consider discussing options with a therapist or career counselor. Additionally, if a person is experiencing anxiety at work, they can inquire about workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. This may include remote working, using noise-cancelling headphones, an emotional support animal, a different type or new positioning of desk, removal of certain tasks that trigger anxiety, or receiving instructions in writing instead of verbally [6].
Financial stability and a healthy work-life balance are important considerations when choosing a job. Fitness trainer, for example, may be a good fit for someone passionate about fitness who enjoys helping others pursue their fitness goals, while roles like a janitor or a veterinary assistant offer more entry-level opportunities [5][7].
In summary, individuals with anxiety disorders may thrive in careers that offer structure, independence, and flexibility, while actively managing stress and anxiety through coping strategies and choosing supportive workplaces. Consulting mental health professionals to tailor these choices to individual needs can also enhance career satisfaction and symptom management.
References:
[1] Anxiety and Depression Association of America. (2021). Careers and Anxiety. Retrieved from https://adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/managing-anxiety/workplace-anxiety/careers-and-anxiety
[2] Hoge CW, Auchterlonie JV, Thomas J, Castro CA Jr. Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan and mental health problems: a systematic review. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2004;292(4):437-448. doi:10.1001/jama.292.4.437
[3] Remote Work and Mental Health: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020;17(18):6787. doi:10.3390/ijerph17186787
[4] Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2019). Occupational Employment Statistics - May 2019. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nat.htm
[5] Job Accommodation Network. (2021). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from https://askjan.org/media/anxiety_disorders.cfm
[6] Americans with Disabilities Act. (1990). Retrieved from https://www.ada.gov/
[7] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020). Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
- The health-and-wellness industry offers several science-based occupations supportive of mental health, such as roles in data analysis, research, and engineering, where individuals can manage their anxiety symptoms effectively while contributing to various fields.
- Incorporating strategies like recognizing symptoms, practising time management, and seeking workplace accommodations as per the Americans with Disabilities Act can significantly improve symptoms of anxiety for individuals pursuing careers in high-stress professions, such as health and education.
