The 10 Best Jobs For People With Depression (With Pros And Cons)

Managing depression in the workplace can significantly impact your performance and well-being. Depressive disorders can hinder your ability to concentrate, motivate yourself, and effectively remember tasks. As mental health awareness grows, nearly 1 in 10 American adults experience some form of depression, making it essential to find a job that is manageable, fulfilling, and supportive of your mental health needs. Fortunately, certain careers can provide a conducive environment for individuals living with depression. Here, we explore the top 10 jobs that align with these criteria.

Key Takeaways:

• The leading jobs for individuals with depression are freelancer, dog walker/pet sitter, and horticulturist.

• Consider roles that offer remote work options or flexible schedules to enhance your work-life balance.

• Positions where you can be your own boss may reduce stress associated with traditional employment structures.

The 10 Best Jobs For People With Depression

1. Freelancer

   Average Salary: $55,020 per year
   Jobs Available: 1,507
   Job Growth Rate: 3%

   Freelance work typically encompasses fields such as communications, technology, and creative arts, including roles like editors, designers, software developers, and writers.

   Pros: Freelancing offers flexibility, minimal need for social interaction, and the potential to work from home, promoting a healthy work-life balance. This autonomy can ease the challenges of managing depressive symptoms.

   Cons: Downsides include the prevalence of part-time roles, potentially lacking benefits. Moreover, 69% of freelancers possess a bachelor’s degree, indicating that education plays a crucial role in accessing these opportunities.

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2. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

   Average Salary: $20,714 per year
   Jobs Available: 22,056
   Job Growth Rate: 16%

   Positions as a dog walker or pet sitter are ideal for animal lovers. Interacting with animals has been shown to enhance mental health, with studies indicating significant improvements in well-being.

   Pros: This role offers a flexible schedule and encourages physical activity, while spending time outdoors has proven benefits for mental health.

   Cons: The primary downside is the low pay and lack of benefits. However, the 16% job growth rate indicates a strong demand for pet care services, allowing you to choose your clients.

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3. Horticulturist

   Average Salary: $34,038 per year
   Jobs Available: 131
   Job Growth Rate: 7%

   Horticulturists focus on plant life, which can be therapeutic as it increases serotonin and oxytocin production in the brain.

   Pros: The role often involves restoring natural habitats, which can be calming and fulfilling. Moreover, it offers plenty of outdoor time for vitamin D exposure.

   Cons: Availability can be limited, but there are often related roles in gardening or landscaping that require minimal formal education.

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4. Photographer

   Average Salary: $49,482 per year
   Jobs Available: 8,300
   Job Growth Rate: -6%

   Photography offers various paths, from wedding photography to commercial work, allowing for creativity and self-expression.

   Pros: This career allows for both physical activity and creativity, making it a rewarding choice for those coping with depression.

   Cons: The learning curve can be steep, and slow job growth may pose challenges for newcomers.

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5. Park Ranger

   Average Salary: $43,777 per year
   Jobs Available: 3,518
   Job Growth Rate: 3%

   Working as a park ranger allows you to immerse yourself in nature, providing a tranquil work environment.

   Pros: The job typically offers good pay, benefits, and opportunities to engage with the community in beautiful settings.

   Cons: Most positions require relevant education, with a significant percentage of park rangers holding a degree.

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6. Postal Carrier

   Average Salary: $53,129 per year
   Jobs Available: 1,101
   Job Growth Rate: -21%

   Becoming a postal carrier provides stability and an opportunity to work independently.

   Pros: This role allows for meditative time while driving, with minimal social interaction required.

   Cons: The job market for postal carriers is declining, which could limit opportunities.

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7. Librarian

   Average Salary: $50,211 per year
   Jobs Available: 1,179
   Job Growth Rate: 6%

   Working in a library is ideal for those seeking a peaceful work environment with meaningful interactions.

   Pros: Librarians often enjoy a calm work atmosphere and the satisfaction of contributing to community literacy.

   Cons: A relevant degree is often required, which may be a barrier for some candidates.

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8. Craftsman

   Average Salary: $43,751 per year
   Jobs Available: 691
   Job Growth Rate: 1%

   Being a craftsman enables you to leverage your hobbies and skills, providing a therapeutic outlet.

   Pros: Crafts allow for focused engagement and can be fulfilling when you create something meaningful for others.

   Cons: Developing your craft may require time and dedication, which can be challenging initially.

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9. Merchandising Associate

   Average Salary: $29,885 per year
   Jobs Available: 330,085
   Job Growth Rate: -2%

   Merchandising positions suit individuals who prefer less conventional job structures, allowing for a focus on inventory management.

   Pros: This role can be ideal for those who prefer a flexible environment and may help alleviate some social interaction stressors.

   Cons: If repetitive tasks worsen your mental health, consider other options on this list.

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10. Tutoring Assistant

    Average Salary: $30,794 per year
    Jobs Available: 6,504
    Job Growth Rate: 4%

    Teaching and tutoring can provide a sense of purpose and connection, making it a rewarding career option.

    Pros: Tutors often enjoy flexible hours and the possibility of remote work, allowing for personalized scheduling.

    Cons: A degree in the relevant subject is typically required, which may limit access for some.

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What To Look For In Jobs For People With Depression

When seeking employment while managing depression, it’s crucial to identify jobs that align with your mental health needs. Here are key characteristics to prioritize:

• Remote work options

• Flexible schedules with low pressure

• A supportive workplace culture

• Minimal requirement for large meetings or group work

• Opportunities to be your own boss

• Engaging and active tasks

Finding a job that meets these criteria can significantly improve your mental well-being, providing not just income but also social interaction and motivation. A supportive work environment can help reduce feelings of isolation and stress, contributing positively to your journey in managing depression.

Jobs For People With Depression FAQ

1. Can you work if you have depression?

   Yes, individuals with depression can work, provided their condition does not impede their ability to perform required tasks. Employment can offer a sense of purpose and achievement, which may aid in coping with depressive symptoms.

2. What are some good jobs for people with depression?

   Freelancing, dog walking, and photography are excellent career options for individuals managing depression. Other suitable roles include postal carrier, park ranger, and craftsman.

Final Thoughts

While searching for a job or transitioning to a new role during depressive periods can be intimidating, taking proactive steps is commendable!

Consider reaching out to supportive friends, family, or mental health professionals for assistance in navigating your career path. There are therapists, counselors, and job coaches available to help you find suitable employment.

Remember, despite the challenges, the right job can significantly enhance your mental health and overall well-being.

Sources

1. Johns Hopkins. “Mental Health Disorder Statistics.” Accessed on November 29th, 2021.

2. CPP. “The cat’s out of the bag: Animals play a big role in boosting our mental health.” Accessed on November 29th, 2021.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.