Best jobs for chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

If you're living with chronic fatigue syndrome (also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis) and looking for a job, the process can be challenging. 

That's why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports your long-term mental and physical wellbeing is our mission.

Find a job that works for you

If you're living with chronic fatigue syndrome and looking for work, you aren't alone. There are up to 250,000 Australians also living with ME/CFS across our country.

Searching for fulfilling work while managing your health can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.

Finding meaningful work while living with ME/CFS is worthwhile as it can:

• Give you a sense of structure and purpose
• Build your confidence and sense of self-worth
• Provide opportunities for social connection
• Keep you focused on the present moment and workplace tasks

Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with ME/CFS.

Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.

Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with ME/CFS.

What to look for in a job when you have chronic fatigue syndrome

People living with chronic fatigue are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.

Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage your overall health.

While everyone’s experience living with ME/CFS is different, you may like to consider the following job features:

What pace do you work best at?

If you are living with chronic fatigue syndrome, you may find that high-stress, fast-paced jobs can cause your symptoms to flare up.

This means it may be helpful for you to find work in low-stress environments, with a slower pace.

What work environment can you best conserve energy in?

Think about what typically causes your symptoms to intensify. If standing up for long periods triggers your symptoms, a seated job might work best for you.

If working in a large team exhausts you, consider a job that you can do on your own.

Do you need a flexible working schedule?

If your ME/CFS make it difficult to stick to long working hours or a structured work environment, you might prefer a flexible role.

You might thrive in a work from home job, or a role that allows you to take regular breaks and take time off for appointments.

Job ideas for people with chronic fatigue syndrome

Everyone experiences ME/CFS differently, which means there is no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for you.

However, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.

When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.

It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.

If you would like more support, speaking to an Employment Consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.

Low-stress, slow-paced jobs

• Freelance writer/editor
• Graphic designer
• Tutor
• Virtual assistant
• Data entry
• Librarian
• Counsellor
• Pet sitter
• Dog walker
• House sitter

Jobs with low social interaction & collaboration

• Data analyst
• Web developer
• Bookkeeper
• Technical writer
• SEO specialist
• Graphic designer
• Proof-reader
• Research scientist (in specific fields such as theoretical research)
• Voice-over artist
• Photographer
• Remote customer support
• Auditor

Jobs that can be done sitting down

• Remote customer support
• Telemarketer
• Call centre agent
• Digital marketing manager
• Illustrator
• Podcasting/podcast producer
• Video editing
• Receptionist
• Social media manager
• Bank teller

Jobs that allow you to work from home

• Author
• Digital project manager
• Nutritionist
• Finance advisor
• Social media manager
• Digital marketing manager
• Graphic designer
• Web developer
• Bookkeeper
• Accounting
• Data entry specialist
• Customer service representative
• Editor

Jobs that may allow regular breaks

• Gardener
• Landscaper
• Jewellery maker
• Pottery artist
• Massage therapist
• Personal trainer
• Pet groomer
• Freelance photographer
• Market stall holder
• Yoga instructor
• Fruit packing

Please note - these job suggestions may not be suitable for everyone with chronic fatigue syndrome.

These careers may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with chronic fatigue syndrome.

What employment support can I access?

If you're living with disability, injury, or a health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.

If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, (people have previously been eligible with chronic fatigue syndrome as a disability), APM can provide support to assist you to find work.

Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.

You may be eligible for help with:

• Career advice
• Finding suitable job opportunities
• Meeting local employers
• Writing resumes and job applications
• Preparing for job interviews
• Accessing training
• Accessing mental health support
• Ongoing workplace support
• Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
• Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
• Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you

Resources and further reading

• What is ME/CFS? – Emerge Australia
• Real tips on finding and keeping a job with chronic fatigue | APM
• How to cope with the pressures of living with chronic illness | APM
• Best job sites in Australia to find employment | APM

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au