Jobs for depressed college students?

Hi,

I'm going to keep this very short and simple:

I have been unemployed for a little over three years and its significantly affected my self-esteem due to lack of independence and pride - I can't function like an adult without having a job. The fact that I'm almost turning 23 (in mid-dec) and still remain jobless for so long depresses the "F" out of me. To be honest, I don't want to look for a job until my depression goes away, but who know's when the "F" that's going to happen and I don't plan on waiting. Anyways, what are suitable jobs for depressed college students that don't require a degree? I'd prefer a job where I'd be working alone - I'm an introvert. I'd appreciate it if anyone would share their personal experience, thanks.

Edward

Hi Edward,

I'm a bit confused... are you still in school? I am asking because you would need a flexible job that would work with your class schedule. I am sorry that you have been unable to find work; that seems like an issue for a lot of people lately. Are you doing anything to work through your depression?

You mentioned not wanting a job until you are no longer depressed- is there a particular reason for this? Do you feel as though the job would help or hurt your depression? I know that sometimes, even the simplest task can be a great challenge while depressed.

I don't really know many jobs where you wouldn't interact with people, but I still wanted to give you some suggestions. Are you searching for a career or just a part time job while you are in school? You could inquire at local hotels about the graveyard shift or some type of house keeping. Both of those positions would keep you to yourself. You could also find out if there are any call centers in your area. That way, you would essentially work alone and any contact you had would be over the phone. There are always openings in restaurants for different positions. I also thought of dry cleaning because it would keep you busy and I would imagine you'd work alone or with one other person.

I understand that you are an introvert and that being alone is more comforting to you, but maybe it would be good to have a happy-medium of interaction with others, especially since you are depressed.

Thank you for your responses getting by, greenbean885, and awty - I really appreciate it.

I kept my initial post brief to avoid it from being too lengthy, but I probably should've provided a little more details about myself and background: I've been struggling with depression since I was about 15. I could say my depression derives from my inability to make friends and relate to people and etc. - social stuff. I've always had trouble "fitting in" and I always felt like an outcast--I still do. I guess that's why I'd rather work by myself. Its funny though because now, I'm kind of anti-social, as if I'm not really interested for people talking to me and vice versa.

getting by - its very nice of you to welcome me Karen. I'm an aspiring graphic designer but I don't haven't been formally educated yet so I don't think I'd be qualified for those kinds of jobs.

greenbean885 - Yes, I am still in school. I do believe having a job and working will help my depression by keeping my mind occupied and I'll be doing something productive with my time. I'm looking for a part-time job (it doesn't necessarily have to relate to my college major, I just need money - thats all). My last job was at a restaurant back in 2008, I was unemployed for about a year after that before I got the opportunity to return working at the restaurant again. And when I came back, I stayed for less than a month and left again because of my depression - it was the BIGGEST mistake of my life. Anyways, I've definitely thought about finding a call center job - I think it would be very suitable for me. Thanks for your suggestions. I always find myself really exhausted either when I'm around a lot of people or perky, happy, loud individuals lol.

awty - I used to volunteer at my local hospital in the human resources department to obtain experience and some references as well, but I left because--can you guess--of my depression. I've burned so many bridges the past couple years, its not even funny. Anyways, I'll probably start looking for night-shift positions.

Once again, thanks everyone for responding. It means a lot to me.