I am unemployed and depressed, how can I stop depression from affecting my job search?

I have definitely been on this boat before, you are not alone. It can be exhausting to job search, especially with the added weight of depression making it more challenging to get tasks done. It's important to remember you do not have to be job searching every waking hour; take time to rest. When I was in a similar state, depressed and looking for a job, I found that slowly getting back into small hobbies I knew I loved helped tremendously and kept my mind occupied. For example, if you enjoyed hiking before but your depression is making it hard to do that, try just starting out with a walk around your block and branch out from there. I also found that a volunteer role can also help keep your mind occupied while job searching.

Take one day at a time, it has helped me in the past, on several occasions. Know that you are doing everything in your power you can, and although it seems like the pressure is enormous, just tell yourself "I am taking this one step at a time, I am doing well." Start with small goals, *I will try to call/email one job today" and then gradually increase this number when *you* are ready. One job may not seem like a lot at first; however, it is a small step in which you are taking control of your situation, without overwhelming yourself. I hope this helps.

Searching for a job takes a lot of energy mentally and physically as I recommend taking time for yourself while doing a job search. Finding time for yourself is essential to be sure to take care of yourself. Do something you enjoy to take your mind off such as getting fresh air outside, drinking a warm beverage, coloring, watching a movie, petting an animal if you have a pet or anything you personally enjoy. I listed these ideas to help you decide on an activity you enjoy to help relieve stress. Take time for yourself during the process of searching for a job, but also believe in yourself in getting a job! You got this! Best of luck! :)

Hello, depression can be overwhelming and may feel too strong to break free from the ever-ending thoughts and feelings and you feel you can not possibly move forward. The important thing is we have a support team who is there for us to help when we need clarity on the situation/s and to redirect our focus and start to move forward in spite of how we may be feeling about the situation, once our minds are back on track and our focus has moved to a positive outlook on life and the prospect of obtaining a new even better job.

if you are unemployed and depressed, there should not be a way that depression affects your search for a new job. but if this is so, you might need to seek professional help. i recommend seeking the help of a primary care physician who can then recommend you an psychiatrist. Psychiatrists are Medical Doctors who's area of Medicinal expertise is mental illness. there is medication for people who suffer from depression, so you have to make up your mind!!! if you are suffering from depression, medication that balances that chemical imbalance in your brain leading to your depression is quite necessary. also, professional therapy, whether online at 7 Cups or in person with a board certified therapist is very helpful. depression is not common. people who seek answers about there depression are uncommon and respected.