If you are living with depression, the idea of looking for work may seem overwhelming.
It may even seem like a hopeless task, however you don’t have to look alone.
Disability Employment Services can help you throughout the process and work with you to secure a job.
Often those of us who have depression experience negative thoughts or feelings, without realising or being able to see their potential or the possibility of a positive outcome.
These thoughts contribute to a lack of motivation which might stop us from looking for work.
However, it’s worth noting there are some great benefits to finding a job when you have a mental health condition like depression.
Some of those things that you feel are a struggle, things that perhaps are contributing to your sense of helplessness, can often be overcome when you find a job.
Below are 3 top benefits of work for people with depression. They may seem obvious, but when dark clouds surround us, it’s helpful to remind ourselves of the simple and positive lessons other people with depression have experienced.
1. Sense of accomplishment
One of the proven ways to overcome negative thoughts is to keep busy and achieve tasks.
The success of finding a job alone, could increase your feelings of worth and give you a sense of pride.
Having a job where you are achieving outcomes, learning new skills and making a difference at work can have a positive affect on your life.
The more you do nothing the more you may sink into negative feelings. Having a purpose, somewhere to be, things to do, and people relying on you can lift you out of those feelings of uselessness.
Having a job can increase your confidence giving you direction and motivation.
2. Improved finances
Money issues can be a big contributing factor to depression and stress.
Improving your financial situation can create greater freedom and more choice. Not just for yourself, but for the people in your life who may depend on you, such as children or elderly parents.
One of the common thoughts that people with depression experience is the feeling they are trapped in a negative situation with no way out.
Earning money can help to change situations at home or with family for the better.
It may allow you the opportunity to improve your living arrangement. It might assist in improving your general health and wellbeing.
Additionally, it can allow you to do more activities you enjoy which can boost your sense of happiness.
3. Enhanced social life
If you have depression, socialising might be the last thing you feel like.
However, research shows that connecting with others, particularly face-to-face, can improve your mood and help to reduce signs of depression.
It’s no surprise that rates of depression and other mental health conditions have increased and raised concerns across the world as we all deal with isolation and lockdown in a bid to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Interacting with co-workers, being part of a team, helping or assisting people at work and being part of a community creates opportunities to converse and have enjoyment.
Finding work when you have depression can enrich your life by providing connections with people.
See how a new job helped Emma manage her health condition and improve her mental health...
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How to get help
If you have depression and want to work but feel that it’s out of reach, Disability Employment Services can help.
Employment consultants can offer direction and guidance towards finding a job that can work for you.
If this article has brought up any issues for you, help is available:
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue
- Headspace
- Orygen