How To Manage Anxiety During Your Job Search

Finding a job can be extremely stressful, especially if you are an anxious person. For those who are neurodivergent and have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the job search can be even more challenging. Although you may not know that someone is dealing with anxiety, know that anxiety disorders are more common than you might think. According to The Anxiety and Depression Association of America, there are nearly 40 million people in The United States who have an anxiety disorder. It’s important to note that a report was published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) last month. It revealed that one in five American adults “experienced any symptoms of anxiety” in 2022.

Although many people in The United States have anxiety, only 60% of American adults seek out help for anxiety. There are various types of anxiety, including social anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more. The most common anxiety disorder seen in Americans is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). 6.8 million Americans have been diagnosed with GAD alone. If you have had to overcome adversity due to living with an anxiety disorder, know that you are not alone.

Regardless of the type of anxiety you have, the job application process can be even more complicated. From freezing up during interviews out of fear of failure to doing self-soothing behaviors like nail biting and skin picking afterwards, the job search can feel like an emotional roller coaster for people with anxiety. That’s why I wrote an article about how to manage anxiety about finding a job. Check it out below.

Have A Mentor Review Job Applications

It’s always best to have a mentor review your job applications. Several professionals in your field should look at your job applications before you submit them. If you have a mentor, have them look at your resume and cover letter as well. You can also have someone prepare you for the interview by doing a mock interview. Feeling prepared for an interview may provide you some relief from your anxiety. If you’re applying to work at a prominent company, head online to find typical questions that are asked during interviews at that company.

If you are still feeling anxious after getting some help with your applications, you may want to reach out to people in your field on LinkedIn to get more advice. You can always add people who are in your line of work and get on phone calls to seek out advice. Never ask for a job, always contact someone to seek out advice.

When they ask you what you’re looking for in a job, tell them about your experience and what you can bring to the table.Then discuss what you’re looking for in a job and how your values and experience align with specific job titles you are interested in.

The person you are networking with from LinkedIn may have some connections or former colleagues who are hiring. At the end of your call with someone from LinkedIn make sure to ask about anyone else they recommend you speak with who can also offer some advice. The more calls you get on and the more your application is reviewed, the more likely you are to get a job.

Do Your Best To Practice Self-Care

Applying to jobs can be exhausting. It’s crucial that people who are looking for jobs take the time to practice self-care. Try creating a self-care routine that you do every day to help reduce your anxiety. For example, you can take a hot bath and light candles, get a massage, or get acupuncture. Tell the acupuncturist where you are feeling tension in your body and they will put needles in specific spots to reduce tension in those areas.

There are so many holistic things you can do to reduce anxiety. Exercise is one of the best ways to get rid of stress. Your diet also affects your mood and how you feel about yourself. Make an effort to eat healthy and remain hydrated while applying to job after job. Sometimes professionals who are busy forget to eat, but it’s difficult to remain focused and awake if you aren’t eating enough.

Also, make sure you are hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you consume coffee regularly. Know that not drinking enough water can lead to headaches and migraines, which may deter you from networking and applying to more jobs. Do whatever it takes to reduce your anxiety, even if that means seeking out professional help.

Consult A Mental Health Professional

If your anxiety is debilitating it may be time to consult a mental health professional. There is no shame in going to therapy and taking medication for anxiety. You might have an anxiety disorder as a result of your experiences, childhood trauma, and environment. If you do have an anxiety disorder, you can ask someone who works in the mental health sector about ways to reduce anxiety ranging from medication to meditating. Some people with anxiety don’t feel comfortable seeking out help. But as time goes on the less stigma there seems to be around having anxiety or being neurodivergent in general.

If you feel alone while grappling with anxiety, consider joining a support group for people with anxiety. Most people know what it’s like to go through the job application process, but not everyone understands how much tougher it can be to apply to jobs when you have anxiety. Seeking out professional assistance may help you feel some relief from constantly dealing with anxiety. To find a support group for those with anxiety, do some research and type in “anxiety support groups” on Psychology Today.

Don’t forget to put your location and any other specifications you would prefer like LGBTQ friendly or trauma informed. Now you know a few ways to reduce anxiety about finding a job. Remember that your job search won’t last forever. If you continue putting in the time and effort to network with professionals in your field, practice self-care, and consult a mental health professional, you will surely find a great opportunity soon.