[nicole84]

Been having a search around for jobs that might be more suited to people with depression and curious what others think. Or even what you do for work/can seem to manage with your depression?

I would imagine lower stress industries, but then again maybe stress would be distracting and make you thrive?

I've considered getting into something like nursing but it seems like it would be more stressful/depressing but then again helping others could be rewarding.

Any ideas?

I'm a high school teacher, so I'm definitely not in a low stress occupation. But it is something I love to do. I'm good at it. I love being with teenagers all day. I think it is most important to do something you really enjoy and care about. I think if I was in a quiet, low stress, job that I didn't have any personal investment in, I'd be absolutely miserable all the time.

[SoupDragon]

The parts of my job where I am making on the spot decisions about things is easiest for me. The bits where I have to sit and write or plan ahead are most difficult for me.

[CgRgSm]

I guess it depends on what level of depression you have. If you have true depression, it will prevent you from doing anything. It feels like I have no will to live at all but something in me still forces me to get up every day and drive myself to work. The point is, depression is something you don't want to have in the workplace, period. However, it is bearable, I suppose, to work at a office type job like what I have where you just sit at a computer all day typing or reading. It really depends on the person. For me, I cannot do anything involving any sort of human interaction. I barely get by where I am because we do still have to interact, but most times I can just hand papers to my co-workers without having to talk to them.

[jazper]

hi
I am a nurse, and work in an aged care facility.
Seeing death and illness all around is hard, but something makes me keep going back. I have been in this industry for thirty years now.
Sometimes I just think I am mad.
Sometimes I think I am honoured.
and
Sometimes when they depart I am jealous.

[bipolarmedstudent]

Originally Posted by nicole84

Been having a search around for jobs that might be more suited to people with depression and curious what others think. Or even what you do for work/can seem to manage with your depression?

I would imagine lower stress industries, but then again maybe stress would be distracting and make you thrive?

I've considered getting into something like nursing but it seems like it would be more stressful/depressing but then again helping others could be rewarding.

Any ideas?

I think nursing is a terrific idea. Working with sick or less fortunate people gives you a unique perspective on life and makes you a more grateful person. When you focus on helping others, your own problems seem much more manageable in comparison.

[nicole84]

Originally Posted by jazper

hi
I am a nurse, and work in an aged care facility.
Seeing death and illness all around is hard, but something makes me keep going back. I have been in this industry for thirty years now.
Sometimes I just think I am mad.
Sometimes I think I am honoured.
and
Sometimes when they depart I am jealous.

I've been interested in similar, but was wondering how bad it would be seeing all the death and illness.

I know i'm somewhat mad Maybe it could work!

[Fig4]

Having a purpose has helped my depression, but just what kind of job, the type of work environment you choose is very important. Determine where you feel comfortable and what you enjoy doing.

I work at our zoo, where I am a Docent. I love animals, and being in this environment is, for me, very healing and comforting. I talk to the visitors, answer questions, and my mind is distracted, taken off my mood and troubles.