For millions of Americans, living with a mental health disorder can get in the way of so many things. Work and relationships often suffer, and it can be difficult to find a job that will allow you to focus on your needs and make a living at the same time. This often means that individuals who should be taking care of themselves are working twice as hard to prove their value and to keep stress and anxiety at a minimum, and often those two things don’t go hand-in-hand.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to boost your mental health while you work. Many people are finding the benefits of working in the gig economy, which means either part-time work or freelance. This translates to more flexible hours, calling the shots and doing something you enjoy rather than working at a job simply for the pay. There are tons of options, too, meaning you can choose the right job for your needs and skill level.
Keep reading for some tips on how to get started and to find out why so many people are turning to the gig economy to make a living.
Stay close to home
For many people, much of the appeal of working in the gig economy is being able to stay close to home. Whether you want to start freelance writing — which can be done from the comfort of your own home — or need to integrate some fresh air and exercise into your daily routine with a job as a dog walker, there are several ways you can get a paycheck without straying too far from home. You can even offer your services as a dog boarder, which will allow you to work with animals that can help boost your mood and even lower your blood pressure.
Set your own hours
For those who suffer from severe anxiety or must take medication, it’s always important to have a job that allows for flexible hours. With the gig economy, you can find employment that will allow you to work when you want, without having to sacrifice your health. From working online to starting your own business, there are many ways you can make money without clocking in at the same time everyday.
Reduce stress
Working for yourself can significantly reduce your stress and anxiety levels, since you’ll be your own boss. Setting your own hours can help, as well, but only if you create a schedule that allows you to focus on your needs. Think about what will work best. If you have other responsibilities such as a family or another job, it’s important to make sure you sit down and work out a routine that will help you stay organized.
Boost your self-esteem
Working for yourself takes some hard work and a lot of careful planning, in part because there’s no one to hold you accountable. Once you get into a good routine, working in the gig economy can boost your self-esteem and confidence because you’ll see exactly what you’re capable of, which can help you in other areas of your life as well.
It can be difficult to find ways to keep your mental health in good shape, but with the right job, you can focus on your needs while making extra money. You might even discover a new career while you’re at it! Start with a good plan and look for ways you can stay organized in order to reduce your stress levels.
