Jobs For People With Depression And Job Search Strategies

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D.

Updated February 12th, 2026 by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Depression is a mental illness that can present a unique set of challenges when you’re job-searching. It might be difficult to stay motivated and proactive in searching for jobs in the face of depression symptoms like low energy, diminished confidence, and lack of enthusiasm. There could also be added stress due to other challenges, like a lack of health insurance.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.

When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

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Jobs for people with depression

However, there are ways to navigate the search while also taking care of your mental health and well-being. Here are some good job ideas for people with depression, as well as tips on how to stay motivated during your search.

Staying motivated and proactive while prioritizing your mental health

Here are some tips for remaining positive during your job hunt and finding the best job for you.

Set small, achievable goals for yourself

It can be helpful to know what type of job you are looking for during your search, especially when you begin to lose motivation. If you are someone who doesn’t enjoy working under pressure, you may want to avoid high-stress jobs that demand long hours. If you find social situations draining, perhaps the best jobs may be ones that allow you to work from home.

You might try looking for a job that aligns with your interests and ideal environments, such as looking into librarian jobs if you like books and work well in quiet spaces, or massage therapist roles if you enjoy the quiet but also value interaction and helping others.

You’ll also want to consider what level of education a job requires. If it only requires a bachelor’s degree and you have a Ph. D., you may be overqualified.

It can also be helpful to break your search down into smaller goals instead of tackling the entire process at once. This may help you feel more in control and give you a sense of accomplishment as you progress.

Examples of small goals might include researching a certain number of openings per week, sending out a certain number of applications, or preparing for a specific number of interviews.

Ask your loved ones for support

It might be helpful to have a support system you trust to talk to about your search and how you feel. They might provide encouragement, offer a listening ear, and help you stay motivated in the face of depression. Having a good support network is not only great for your mental well-being, but can also help you by recommending other positions you might not have thought about before. They can also provide insight about their experience that can help you explore career paths with insider knowledge of how they work.

You might also consider joining support groups or online communities specifically for people with depression while job-searching or exploring new jobs.

Take breaks to care for yourself

For people with depression, it can be especially beneficial to set their own schedule and take breaks during the job search process. Just as maintaining a good work-life balance is important when you are employed, balancing your time job hunting and living is important when you’re still on the market. You’ll also want to practice self-care during this time to keep depression symptoms at bay, which might include exercising, practicing meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Taking breaks and engaging in self-care might help you maintain your energy and prevent burnout, which can be especially important if you’re experiencing mental health challenges like depression as you look for work that suits your needs and preferences.

Consider searching for an online therapist or coach who specializes in mental illness

If you find it challenging to stay motivated and proactive while researching employment opportunities, working with an online therapist or coach might be helpful. They may allow you to find resources and strategies to help you manage your depression symptoms and stay focused on your search goals. They may also have suggestions regarding the best types of careers for people with depression.

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Jobs for people with depression: Managing the job search process

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by all the steps that go into a search with or without depression. Below are some strategies you might use to help manage the job search process and stay on track while you research the jobs that are a good fit for you.

Create a timeline

Creating a timeline and checklist of tasks may help you break down the search process into manageable pieces so that you don't feel overwhelmed. Just like one would during school projects, setting deadlines can be beneficial when job-searching. You may also want to create a plan for interviews or other tasks, as that might make the process easier.

Part of your checklist may also include ensuring you have the qualifications a place of employment is asking for. In addition to education level, some positions will have different requirements, like those that pertain to physical health. Dog-walking likely requires you to be able to walk several miles each day, whereas a position as a computer programmer would probably consist of spending time at a desk.

In addition, specific physical positions may require that you be able to lift a certain amount of weight or be on your feet for many hours at a time. It can be helpful to consider these aspects when inquiring about an opening.

You might also set a personal list of requirements for the positions you're looking at. This might include requirements like work satisfaction and a certain level of security, such as looking at the length of the proposed contract and the benefits being offered. You might include aspects of your work life that you find valuable, such as the ability to work independently. This can help you find a position that suits your needs.

Take advantage of technology

Technology can be an effective tool when it comes to the search process.

You might consider using online applications, email reminders, or websites that allow you to track the applications you’ve sent to specific roles or careers. You can also use search boards to see other jobs you may want to apply to and keep track of new jobs as they open up. Many jobs have online applications or boards where you can see what roles are hiring, what careers and departments they have at the company, and what line of work they might offer. If you’re not sure what kind of job is suitable due to depression symptoms, you might type “best jobs for people with depression” into a search engine and explore the results. You may try getting more specific, such as “jobs for people with seasonal affective disorder” or your depression diagnosis.

Another way you could use technology in your search could be through social media. Check the social media accounts of businesses and careers in your area, or organizations like the postal service, and see if they have posted about any recent openings. Online networking with people working jobs in the industry you’re interested in may also prove helpful.

This could have the bonus of allowing you to get a position close to your home. If the local home supply store down the street posts that they need employees immediately, you could find work within walking distance. Working near your home will make your commute easier, and could help you avoid added stress and depression symptoms as you adjust to your new job.

Use your network to job hunt

Research shows that networking can be an effective part of any job search, with evidence showing that even weak social ties can lead to finding employment. This may involve attending networking events, reaching out through social media, or asking family/friends if they know of any other jobs available at their place of work or have advice regarding possible jobs.

It may take some time to create a network, but with just a few years of effort, you may gain connections with people who could benefit you for the rest of your career. This may be difficult for people living through a major depressive episode, living with clinical depression, or experiencing other mental health conditions besides depression that affect mood and energy levels, so it might be worth it to seek professional support that allows you to continue networking.

Job ideas for those with depression or other mental illness symptoms

Many jobs can be suitable for people experiencing depression or a depressive state and for people with another mental illness with similar symptoms. The best job ideas for people with depression tend to be jobs that offer autonomy and flexibility, like freelance writing or virtual assistant work. You can also choose jobs that will allow you to interact with animals, like pet sitting.

Outdoor jobs to boost your mental health: Dog walking and park ranger jobs for people with depression

If you want to work with animals and enjoy the outdoors, dog walking jobs could be a good option for you to explore. On the other hand, if you like the outdoors but don’t want to care for animals directly, it may be beneficial to look into park ranger jobs. Outdoor jobs often have the added benefit of promoting physical health, depending on the types of responsibilities associated with the position, as well as improved mental health due to the extra sunlight, physical activity, and time spent doing something enjoyable, which could help treat your depression symptoms.

Work-from-home jobs for people with depression: Computer programming

If you are experiencing depression, you may also want to look for jobs that allow you to work from home, as they often allow individuals to avoid the stress of a traditional office. If you know any programming languages or have an interest in learning one, it may be helpful to look into jobs in coding. Some coding jobs allow employees to work remotely, which may reduce stress and allow you to spend time seeking support. These can be great jobs for people with social anxiety, as well as depression.

Be your own boss: Start a business

If you can’t find a position that you believe will make reasonable accommodations for your depression symptoms, you may want to consider creating your own business. While there can be considerable start-up costs associated with beginning a business, you may be invigorated by the process.

This doesn’t necessarily have to be something large or involve renting a storefront, but could instead be a small online operation or something that focuses on a task you can do at home. That way, you could set your own hours and dedicate any time you have left to self-care. It should be noted that starting a business can be stressful, and if you are already experiencing mental health challenges, it may be a better idea to pursue a traditional career and reach out for depression support instead to manage your stress levels before opting to venture out on your own.

Ultimately, the best jobs for people with depression will depend on their unique needs and preferences.

Alleviating symptoms through mental health therapy

For people with depression, mental health therapy can be a helpful step to control their symptoms while looking for the right career path. Psychotherapy can help people recognize and change cognitive distortions and troubling behaviors. Psychotherapy, under the care of a licensed mental health professional, can be effective in reducing the symptoms of depression. The most common evidence-based therapies for depression are cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy.

Online therapy can help with depression

Working with a therapist or coach may provide valuable insight into managing the symptoms of major depressive disorder, developing coping strategies, setting achievable goals, and staying motivated while looking for job opportunities. In addition, online therapy might provide clarity on the right job and help you develop targeted strategies to achieve success.

Therapy can provide a sense of control over your mental health and career path, and a therapist can help you discern good job ideas for you. It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to job searching with depression and other mental illnesses. Each person's preference, lifestyle, comfort level, and personality can influence which jobs might fit them.

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Benefits of online therapy for depression and other mental health conditions

If you’re not feeling well enough to attend in-office therapy, you might try online therapy, which research demonstrates to be effective in helping people experiencing depression or anxiety disorders. Online therapy is often more affordable than in-person therapy, with prices ranging from $70-$100 a week. In addition, many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers (state limited). For eligible members, co-pays average just $19 a week.

Online therapy may be an especially valuable resource for people seeking employment while experiencing mental health challenges, like depression. According to the World Health Organization, in the United States, people with depression are also more likely to be unemployed, with nearly a third of those reporting that their condition has limited their ability to work. Individuals can manage their condition and find employment with the help of mental health treatment and job search strategies.

By addressing depression symptoms with the help of a licensed online therapist, you may find that your symptoms improve alongside your employment outcomes.

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Takeaway

If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression while looking for a job, it may be helpful to get emotional and psychological support. With BetterHelp, you can be matched with a licensed therapist with experience helping people cope with depression symptoms and the stress of searching for employment. Take the first step to a more productive, less stressful job search and reach out to BetterHelp today.

Frequently asked questions

Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.

What is the best job for someone with anxiety?

Finding the right work environment can influence job satisfaction and overall well-being. For instance, a person with anxiety may experience difficulty functioning in high-stress work environments. What counts as a high-stress environment can vary from person to person, as anxiety symptoms vary and can be triggered by different factors.

Some individuals with anxiety may prefer working with a large group of people, while others may prefer working alone. For those who prefer work environments that require little to no social interaction, here is a brief list of low-stress job options:

A job that lets you work from home: Many employers let their employees work remotely. Being able to work from the comfort of your own home can help reduce stress and improve well-being. With no commute and no coworkers, you may be less likely to experience anxiety before, during, and after work hours.
A job that allows you to work alone: Jobs that let you work independently may include an accountant, computer programmer, or writer. These can be great low-stress job options for people experiencing mental health conditions.
A job with a flexible schedule: Individuals with anxiety may benefit from setting their own hours and working at their own pace. Being able to set your own schedule can also help reduce stress.
Artistic positions: Artistic opportunities may relieve your anxiety by giving you an outlet to express yourself. Being creative is a mindful process that may keep your mind off feeling anxious while at your place of employment.
Librarian jobs: For someone who would rather work with books, taking a job as a librarian may be perfect. Librarians typically have peaceful work environments, which can help reduce stress levels.

It may help to talk to a therapist about your anxiety to explore the best career paths for you.

What mental health conditions or illnesses can keep you from working?

With the right treatment and support, people living with mental health conditions can achieve job satisfaction and thrive in their chosen careers. However, some individuals with mental health conditions may have psychological and physical symptoms that can affect job performance and make it more challenging to work. Below are a few examples:

Depression: Depression is a serious mental health condition that can make it difficult to get out of bed and function in day-to-day life. Individuals with depression may also experience difficulty concentrating and maintaining focus, along with other depressive symptoms, significantly influencing their ability to work.
ADHD, OCD, and other mental health conditions that affect cognitive function: Some mental health conditions may make it challenging to focus on work tasks for long periods. Certain conditions may also cause impulsivity, which can lead to poor problem-solving and reckless business decisions.
Severe mood swings: Being prone to sudden anger may make it challenging to thrive in certain work environments, such as those that require a lot of social interaction.

Individuals with mental health challenges that affect their ability to function in the workplace can utilize certain accommodations to make things more manageable. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act provides support to people with mental health conditions by protecting them against discrimination in the workplace and requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees.

Examples of accommodations for people experiencing mental health challenges may include the following:

Scheduling: Scheduling accommodations an employer may offer include flexible work hours, part-time work hours each week, and time off for mental health days.
Flexible work environment: An employer may let employees with mental health challenges work remotely to avoid the stress of commuting or trying to focus in a busy work environment.
Flexible breaks: An employer may offer breaks based on individual needs instead of following a fixed schedule.

What job search challenges do people with mental health challenges encounter?

People experiencing mental health challenges can sometimes have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, let alone finding the energy to deal with the job application process. However, finding a job can be an important part of recovery, as job insecurity and financial trauma can significantly worsen mental health. Having job security and working in a pleasant environment can help improve a person’s social functioning, sense of self-worth, and overall well-being.

Challenges commonly faced by individuals with mental health conditions can include the following:

Decreased motivation
Negative self-perception
Negative employer perceptions
Discrimination and stigma
Increased stress

As you look forward to getting your first job, you might seek professional support to help manage stress and other mental health challenges. Seeing a therapist may be particularly beneficial for those with serious mental health conditions. For instance, people with depression may find themselves struggling to find a job due to their depressive symptoms. Mental health professionals can offer support through counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management, as well as help patients develop coping techniques for managing depression.

Lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet, can also help manage stress and enhance motivation. People experiencing mental health challenges may also benefit from finding jobs in low-stress work environments and avoiding high-stress working conditions, such as shift work. For example, people managing depression may enjoy the structure and daily routine of being a library assistant or research analyst. People with anxiety may thrive in creative fields and other industries that allow them to set their own schedule.

What can I do about my job anxiety?

Job anxiety can involve anything related to a job that makes you anxious. This includes:

Anxiety over applying for a job: You may be worried that you won’t provide the best application or that you won’t be hired.
Anxiety over being late for your job: This may lead to insomnia or getting up extra early when you don’t need to.
Fear in the workplace: You may be afraid to go to the workplace for several reasons, such as a bad coworker or a tough boss.
Anxiety related to speaking to colleagues or customers: Jobs that require a lot of verbal and social interaction may not be ideal for people who have anxiety. However, this may not be the case for everyone experiencing anxiety.

There are many reasons why you may have job anxiety. Here are some things you can do about them.

Learn mindfulness. Every time a self-defeating thought gets into your mind, you might try to simply observe it. You can practice meditative breathing and learn how to focus on the present.
Remove the cause. If a coworker or someone else at your company is giving you trouble, you can report them or ask to be moved.
Change your bedtime so that you have plenty of time to sleep and get up to go to your job.
Try a job that doesn’t involve leaving your house. Plenty of jobs are doable from the comfort of your home.
Seek professional support. Mental health professionals can help you develop coping strategies to manage job-related anxiety and improve your mental health.

How can I get experience without a job?

Teens and young adults tend to run into a paradox, where they need a job and job experience, but they don’t have job experience to get a job. Below are some ways to get some experience:

Translate your experience. If you’re applying for a job, you might try to think of some experiences that could translate into something relevant for a new job. If you’re applying to be an assistant, for example, you might talk about your experience organizing files, even if it was for personal or academic use.
List your soft skills. Soft skills are skills that may not be listed in a job description but could be relevant. For example, if you’re good at communication, you might talk about any of your hobbies or activities that require interaction and could relate to potential jobs.
Try some freelancing jobs. If you have a skill, like art, writing, or another marketable talent, freelancing websites might help you get short-term jobs. Even if you don’t have an extensive portfolio, you might gain valuable experience that takes you to the next level on these websites.
Participate in volunteer work. While not the ideal job for many, doing volunteer work can show employers that you care for your community. It can also give you valuable job experience.
Search for internships. Internships can be especially valuable for someone who is in college. An internship can provide relevant experience that you can add to your resume.
Speak to a job counselor about finding a job or finding experience when you don’t have either. You can search for pro bono counselors, online counselors, college counselors, or mental health professionals who offer counseling on a sliding scale fee structure.

If you're interested in learning more about jobs and careers, check out these related articles:

10 Jobs For People With Social Anxiety

How Can A Career Counselor Help Me Determine What Job I Want To Have?

8 Job Ideas For People With Anxiety

How To Respond To A Job Rejection

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This article provides general information and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. Mentions of diagnoses or therapy/treatment options are educational and do not indicate availability through BetterHelp in your country.

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