Why Having a Job Is Good for Your Mental Health

Did you know that mental health and money problems are often intricately linked. Research shows that in England alone over 1.5 million people are experiencing both problem debt and mental health problems in any given year. When you think about it, that’s a lot of people who are not feeling their best mentally. Mental health is important for overall health and well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.

 One way to keep your mental health in check is to have a job. That’s right. Contrary to popular belief, a 9-to-5 can actually be good for you mentally. Here’s how:

1. Working Helps Bolster Your Self-Esteem

    

   When it comes to mental health, having a job can be a huge help. In fact, it can actually bolster your self-esteem.

    

   Think about it. When you’re working, you’re doing something productive and contributing to society. You’re using your skills and talents in a meaningful way. This can all lead to increased feelings of self-worth and pride.

    

2. It Can Provide a Sense of Structure

    

   A lot of people need structure in their lives in order to function at their best. For some, this comes naturally. But for others, having a job can provide that much-needed sense of structure.

    

   When you have a job, you have set hours that you need to be there. You have a routine that you need to follow. This can help give your life some much-needed structure and order.

    

3. It Can Help Take Your Mind Off of Things

    

   When you’re feeling down, one of the best things you can do is take your mind off of things. And what better way to do that than by working?

    

   When you’re at work, you’re focusing on tasks and duties that need to be completed. You’re not focused on your negative thoughts or feelings. This can be a huge help in taking your mind off of things.

    

4. It Can Help You Meet New People

    

   Working can also help you meet new people. When you’re at work, you’re around other people who are also working. You have the opportunity to chat with them and get to know them.

    

   This can be great for your mental health. Meeting new people can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. It can also help increase social support, which is crucial for mental health.

    

5. A Career Can Help You Develop New Skills and Strengths

Developing new skills is always a good thing. It can help you feel more confident and capable. When you have a job, you have the opportunity to develop new skills and strengths. You might learn new things about your field, or you might pick up new skills that are transferable to other areas of your life. Either way, developing new skills is a great way to improve your mental health.

Bottom Line

Don't let anyone tell you that having a job is bad for your mental health. As you can see, there are actually quite a few ways in which it can be good for you. So if you’re looking to improve your mental health, consider getting a job. It just might be the best thing for you.

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