I Know I Need to Make a Career Change, But Why do I Feel Depressed About It?

Navigating the workforce can be challenging. You have your family to think about and provide for—your career ambitions and what you want to achieve. But sometimes, those two things don’t align.

Searching for jobs is already one of the more stressful things we often go through. Add in the current economy, bleak prospects, and a rising cost of living…well, it certainly isn’t getting easier.

The truth is, it is actually really common to become depressed when you want a new career. Here’s why.

Inflation Rates on the Rise

The world, collectively, has gone through a lot these last few years. The pandemic and Ukrainian war, among other things, have caused inflation rates around the world to increase disproportionally. From here in London to the United States, everywhere is going through tough times financially.

With economies in flux, it can feel terrifying to search for a new career. The certainty of a paycheck now can make the uncertainty of a new job seem daunting. Are you ready to take that leap of faith? These are contributing factors that may be leading you to feel depressed over a career change and can feel too risky.

Even Prospective Change Can Feel Daunting

We get into a routine. Maybe you have been in your career for a few years or even decades. No matter how long you have been in your current position, it can feel intimidating just thinking about going to a new place of employment. Will it be the right fit? Is it enough money to support my family or me? Will my job be secure?

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to career changes. And in some ways, it can feel as if you are starting a grieving process for the life you once had if you do make the jump. 

Feeling Depressed Is More Than Just Being Sad

There’s a common misconception that when you are depressed, you have to be sad.

Do you find you are more irritable since you began contemplating a career change? Has your appetite changed entirely? The truth is that depression can and typically does involve more. These are all prevalent signs of depression. And they can be especially heightened when you want a career change.

Because your emotional state feels like a rollercoaster, it is likely causing the changes in appetite that you are noticing. You could feel more irritated if you aren’t sure what career you want to change to. Or maybe you do know, but you don’t know how to get to that point.

Self-Doubt Is Causing You To Question Everything

With this change on your mind, you might be questioning yourself. Not only on the logistics of this decision but in the faith you have in yourself. You may be psyching yourself out right now, thinking about the other job applicants competing for the same position. “Do I measure up? Why should they choose me over someone else?”

Self-doubt and depression go hand in hand. They feed into each other, creating a constant cycle of turmoil in your mind.

What You Can Do

Breathe. This is understandably a huge decision that you are going to make. But you don’t have to rush into any decision just to come to one. If you are contemplating a career change, it’s okay if you want to take your time. Even when you know it’s the right decision, there is a lot to consider.

Feeling depressed over a career change is normal and can be expected. Just don’t stay stuck in this place for too long. If you find that this is the case, reach out to me so I can help you combat these feelings of depression and help you make the best career move for your life.