The 10 Best Jobs for People With Anxiety

Mental Health Counselor | Museum Curator/Archivist | Fine Artist | Historian | Agricultural Engineer | Hydrologist | Dietitian | Geoscientist | Medical Technologist | Fitness Trainer

We all experience anxiety at some point, but for many people anxiety is an everyday occurrence that can severely impact both mental and physical health. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in the United States, with nearly 40 million people experiencing some form of anxiety disorder in any given year.

Anxiety can be triggered by a number of factors, including family history, certain personality traits such as shyness, physical health problems, substance use, other mental health conditions, and stressful events.

In normal situations, stress can be beneficial. It helps us cope with potentially serious situations by keeping us alert. Our bodies respond to stress by releasing hormones that increase our heartbeat and breathing rate, getting our muscles ready to respond. But when the stress becomes too intense or turns into a regular occurrence, it can have a devastating impact on the body, leading to an anxiety disorder.

Severe anxiety is more than just sweaty palms — it’s a condition that can lead to serious health issues if not treated, including heart disease and cancer. People with anxiety disorders often experience persistent and uncontrollable symptoms brought on by extreme fear or worry, with common warning signs including increased blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, chest pain, insomnia, trembling or shaking, and exhaustion.

Here, we introduce 10 ideal jobs for people with anxiety. But don’t feel limited to these jobs — anxiety shouldn’t prevent you from pursuing your dream career. Remember that anxiety can be managed and treated, just like any other medical condition.

As a museum curator or archivist, you’ll work in a museum-like setting, which is often a quiet and peaceful environment. The work can also be very therapeutic, allowing you to focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about issues that may lead to or heighten anxiety.

Museum curators oversee a collection of exhibits and artifacts in a museum or gallery. In smaller settings, they may be in charge of all exhibits. Their work typically involves acquiring museum collections, identifying items for display, organizing exhibits and educational programs, and maintaining records.

Archivists, by contrast, preserve historical documents and artifacts, conduct research, and coordinate outreach programs.

Historians study and interpret past events, such as military conflicts, political struggles, periods of social and economic upheaval and unrest, medical advancements, and scientific achievements.

Work may include researching recorded histories, analyzing written records and artifacts, preserving historical materials, educating the public about historical events, proposing theories, and writing articles.

Historians usually work for colleges and universities, the government, museums, historical societies, nonprofits, research organizations, and consulting firms. Most of the work they do takes place in a quiet, low-pressure environment, making this an ideal career for anxiety-prone individuals. Duties can also be highly engaging, helping you stay focused on the task at hand.

Hydrologists help solve water-related problems by studying the physical properties of water, both above and below the Earth’s surface. Work may include studying how precipitation impacts the flow of water through creeks and rivers, collecting water and soil samples to test for contaminants and pH levels, and analyzing the feasibility of hydroelectric power plants and irrigation systems.

Most hydrologists split their workdays between the office and the outdoors. According to Michael Depledge, chair of Environment and Human Health at the University of Exeter Medical School, “There is a clear correlation between close proximity to a body of water and better psychological and overall health outcomes.” This relationship between water and mental health makes a career in hydrology a solid option for anyone with anxiety.

Geoscientists study the Earth’s composition, including its processes and history. Geoscience is a broad field that encompasses an array of scientific disciplines. Depending on which area of geoscience you’re involved with, work may include searching for natural resources, conducting field studies, studying rock and soil samples, analyzing fossils, investigating sources of pollution, and studying seismic activity.

Most geoscientists work with sophisticated equipment, such as ground penetrating radar, X-ray machines, seismographs, electron microscopes, and remote sensors. Much of the work of geoscientists is conducted outdoors or in a low-pressure laboratory environment, making this a great career option for those with anxiety disorders.

One of the best ways to mitigate anxiety is to exercise. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, exercise can reduce stress and is vital for maintaining mental fitness. By working as a fitness trainer, you can assist others with stress-related issues while also helping yourself overcome your own anxiety.

Fitness trainers are highly trained professionals with advanced knowledge of exercise science, human anatomy, nutrition, and physiology. With the goal of improving clients’ overall health and conditioning, fitness trainers develop tailored exercise programs, which may include cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and stretching.

Most certified fitness trainers work at fitness and recreational sports centers. Approximately 11% are self-employed.

Editor’s Note: This article contains general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a professional advisor before making decisions about health-related issues.

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