Not everyone likes working but most will agree that being unemployed can be devastating. People who are unemployed tend to feel like they no longer have a purpose. They are also dealing with a reduced income. A combination of these feelings can lead to depression, stress, and anxiety.
If you are unemployed, finding a job may not be easy but it will happen. What’s more, there are ways to deal with your depression to improve your outlook on life while you’re looking for a job.
Read on to find out more about how unemployment affects mental health and how you can turn things around.
Effects of Unemployment on Mental Health
When we work at a job every day, it’s easy to take for granted how much it means to complete a task and get congratulated for it. It provides us with a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem. Once that is taken away, depression can start to set in.
Employment also provides us with meaning and purpose and a connection to the community. When unemployed, we tend to feel isolated. Our days are unstructured robbing us of the feeling of accomplishment we get after a hard day of work.
In addition, when we are unemployed, we are living on a limited income. Unemployment covers basic expenses but it doesn’t allow for extravagances and luxuries. It is also temporary income so we feel pressured to find a job even if it is not one we really want.
How to Deal with Depression
The ultimate way to relieve the depression caused by unemployment is to find another job you’re happy with; but that’s easier said than done. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to promote feelings of happiness.
Meditate: Meditation and mindful thinking will give you a better outlook on life making you appreciate what you have. It is also effective in reducing stress and helping you get a good night’s sleep.
Do Something Productive: In addition to searching for a job, try to think of other productive things you can do. Try focusing on a creative activity like writing or doing a craft. Who knows? It just might open another career opportunity for you.
Take Supplements: There are several supplements on the market that are recommended for boosting mental health. Here are two you may want to try.
Pure Encapsulations’ NeuroMood Pure Pack: Pure Encapsulations is a brand that is dedicated to designing high-quality, hypoallergenic supplements. Their NeuroMood Pure Pack supports neurotransmitter function to enhance mood and mental wellness. It is also beneficial to immune function.
Douglas Laboratories’ Mood Systems Balance: Douglas Laboratories has been a leader in nutritional health for over 50 years. Their Mood Systems Balance promotes the transport of neurotransmitters in the brain to support balanced mood, boosted energy and better sleep. It is non-GMO, vegetarian, and free of artificial preservatives.
Unemployment can be tough, but it’s important to maintain a positive outlook. The right opportunity will come along soon enough!
