Anxiety disorders are the most rampant mental illness in the United States. About 19.1% of the national population, or 40 million American adults, suffer from an anxiety disorder. This mental health problem has several variations, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Anxiety disorders can be debilitating, but patients can still handle human interaction, such as work. However, they should learn stress-control techniques and receive appropriate medications. It also helps if they find low-stress jobs that align with their interests and career paths.
How can you tell that you have anxiety?
Having an anxiety disorder is more than being a worry wart. Since it relates to numerous mental health conditions and manifests various other physical symptoms, it is best to seek professional help to verify its existence. If you suspect yourself or anyone to suffer from an anxiety disorder, book an appointment with a psychiatrist.
How does anxiety affect your career choice?
Experiencing anxiety at work can be so challenging that an employee would fail their regular duties. Despite possessing high-level hard and soft skills, a job hunt can be an ordeal for people with anxiety. Their severe anxiety symptoms can limit career choices. Fortunately, low-stress careers exist.
30 Low-stress jobs for people with anxiety
A suitable job for people with social anxiety should be low-stress and free from triggering factors like intense fear. Otherwise, choosing inappropriate jobs would only make their anxiety worse. Read this if you are someone with an anxiety disorder:
1. Data entry specialist
Data entry jobs are generally low-stress because they do not require intense critical thinking and close interaction with other people. The work of a data entry specialist follows a predictable cycle, which makes it easier for people with anxiety disorders to adjust.
Average annual income: $32,574 to $40,923
Minimum skills: computer skills, organizational skills, computer software knowledge, and fast typing speed
Required certifications: high school diploma
2. Graphic designer
Many may consider that being a graphic designer is not a low-stress job because it entails hectic activities. However, as a creative career, parts of it promote therapeutic relief. Passionate graphic designers may not even consider themselves “working.”
Average annual income: $40,160 to $71,310
Minimum skills: drawing skills, design skills, editing skills, and knowledge about design trends
Required certifications: none; a bachelor’s degree in graphic design may be preferable
3. Video editor
Like being a graphic designer, video editing can also be a low-stress job due to its creative nature. Video editors can explore their artistic sides and incorporate their visions into their outputs.
Average annual income: $51,514 to $65,087
Minimum skills: editing skills, media production skills, collaborative skills, and keen attention to detail
Required certifications: no formal education needed
4. Programmer
Programming could be high-stress work, but the job’s high compensation often justifies the anxiety workers experience. At first, this job can be stressful due to extensive workloads. However, veterans develop resistance and become better at managing their tasks.
Average annual income: $67,370 to $116,220
Minimum skills: programming skills, writing skills, analytical skills, and problem-solving skills
Required certifications: Programming in C# Certification, Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC), and Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP)
5. Mobile developer
Being a mobile developer is one of the recommended jobs for people with anxiety because of its difficulty level. This job involves a lot of stakes, but creating mobile applications can be relatively easy. After mastering the basics, mobile developers can easily make a living independently.
Average annual income: $89,000 to $156,500
Minimum skills: programming language skills, backend computing skills, IoT skills, product management skills, cybersecurity skills, UI design skills, and cross-platform development skills
Required certifications: none, but it is ideal to have the credentials for GIAC Mobile Device Security Analyst, Oracle Java ME Mobile Application Developer, Android Developer Training, Mobile Application Developer, App Development with Swift, and MTA Developer. One of the most in-demand languages in app development is SWIFT. So if you hire swift developers pay attention to it minimum skills
6. Web developer
Web development is one of the best jobs for people with anxiety if the workers know how to manage their tasks and deadlines. In addition, web developers’ average salary is relatively high, so they may experience high satisfaction after finishing projects.
Average annual income: $66,431 to $126,750
Minimum skills: web design skills, computer programming skills, and management skills
Required certifications: no formal education needed
7. Blog manager
Blog management can be one of the best low-stress jobs today because the tasks are more limited in scope. Blog managers concern themselves with the maintenance of blogs and their content. Unless they handle too many blogs, their job should not be as triggering.
Average annual income: $48,891 to $52,552
Minimum skills: writing skills, editing skills, keen attention to detail, and management skills
Required certifications: none
8. Freelance writer
Freelance writers have low-stress careers because of the freedom they possess while working. Moreover, compared to a technical writer, writers taking freelance work may choose what type of jobs to take. Besides, freelance writers have flexible workstations and schedules.
Average annual income: It depends on the projects they take on.
Minimum skills: writing skills, editing skills, research skills, and organization skills
Required certifications: none
9. Freelance editor
Stress-free jobs like freelance editing are best for individuals having trouble coordinating with others, especially in person. In addition, it involves low stress because freelance editors work independently and concern themselves mainly with polishing a given content.
Average annual income: It depends on the projects they take on.
Minimum skills: editing skills, proofreading skills, management skills, and communication skills
Required certifications: none
10. Social media manager
Ideal low-stress jobs for people with anxiety should not involve active social interaction with people. However, being a social media manager is an exception because all social interaction happens behind the screen and the manager’s identity remains protected.
Average annual income: $53,224 to $72,127
Minimum skills: content production skills, editing skills, writing skills, marketing skills, organization skills, and design skills
Required certifications: none
11. Transcriptionist
Transcribing is one of the most accessible low-stress jobs in the market today. It only requires basic typing and listening skills, and the work is monotonous. It is one of the best jobs for introverts because transcriptionists generally do not work with others.
Average annual income: $44,400 to $55,500
Minimum skills: computer skills, typing skills, listening skills, and clerical skills
Required certifications: none
12. Interior designer
Being an interior designer easily qualifies as one of the best jobs for people with anxiety. Aside from being a creative career, it is not a job bound by strict rules. So long as the clients are satisfied, interior designers can do as they please.
Average annual income: $39,478 to $54,602
Minimum skills: design skills, project management skills, technical skills, and a keen eye for detail
Required certifications: pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam
13. Gardener
Gardening is scientifically proven to improve one’s health, making it one of the best low-stress jobs for people with anxiety. Besides toning the body through rigorous activities while tending plants, gardening is also the perfect excuse to bathe in sunlight and acquire Vitamin D.
Average annual income: $31,200 to $37,037
Minimum skills: horticulture skills, landscaping skills, and cultivating skills
Required certifications: none
14. Florist
Akin to gardening, being a florist is among the top stress-free jobs for people with anxiety. It is a therapeutic job that keeps the mind calm and focused. Except for peak seasons, florists are not that busy all year round.
Average annual income: $43,794 to $65,196
Minimum skills: horticulture skills, landscaping skills, cultivating skills, and flower arrangement skills
Required certifications: none; to become a certified floral designer, acquire a certification from the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD)
15. Pet trainer
Being a pet trainer is relatively non-stressful. This job can be gratifying and soothing if you are an animal lover.
Average annual income: $56,358 to $59,702
Minimum skills: observational skills, pet training skills, and positive reinforcement techniques
Required certifications: “Certified Professional Dog Trainer” title from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
16. Dog walker
Dog walking is an animal-related therapy recommended for people suffering from a generalized anxiety disorder. It helps neutralize blood pressure and increase happiness.
Average annual income: $31,850 to $32,433
Minimum skills: physical strength and stamina, pet care skills, and interpersonal skills
Required certifications: none; however, aspiring pet walkers may acquire pet sitter certifications from private issuing organizations to avoid ESA fraud.
17. Fitness instructor or fitness trainer
Being a fitness instructor or fitness trainer is one of the least stressful jobs involving active human participation. Because of its flexible scheduling, fitness instructors can quickly establish a work-life balance without compromising potential growth opportunities.
Average annual income: $40,700 to $44,280
Minimum skills: physical strength and stamina, interpersonal skills, and organizational skills
Required certifications: high school diploma and CPR/AED certification
18. Dietician
Dieticians have the least stressful jobs for people in the medical industry. Unlike other medical professionals like doctors and nurses, dieticians are not “on-call” or have to work graveyard shifts on multiple occasions a week.
Average annual income: $60,947 to $73,572
Minimum skills: knowledge of nutrition and health, interpersonal skills, and observation skills
Required certifications: accredited bachelor’s or college degree in nutrition and dietetics, Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Exam certificate, and state license
19. Counselor
The stress levels counselors deal with may vary per client and transaction. However, overall, they still lead a low-stress career, considering that they do not work long hours and only deal with a limited number of patients.
Average annual income: $68,615 to $85,004
Minimum skills: active listening skills, interpersonal skills, and emotional intelligence
Required certifications: accredited bachelor’s or college degree in counseling psychology, a certificate from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), and state license
20. Massage therapist
Massage therapy is often a fallback career for those who burnt out in their previous jobs. In addition, massage therapists do not work in a fast-paced career. They do not follow a strict schedule either.
Average annual income: $43,620 to $55,574
Minimum skills: physical stamina, time management skills, interpersonal skills, and empathetic skills
Required certifications: accredited bachelor’s degree in anatomy and physiology, National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) certification, and state license
21. Laboratory technician
Being a laboratory technician is not as stressful compared to other medical careers, like a pharmacy technician. This job does not require professionals to be constantly on a time crunch when performing their tasks. Their workloads are predictable and do not change too often, except in medical emergencies like the pandemic.
Average annual income: $43,620 to $55,574
Minimum skills: observation skills, teamwork skills, analytical skills, and time management skills
Required certifications: accredited bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science, American Medical Technologists certification, and state license
22. Researcher
Researchers do not have stressful careers because they often work in a quiet environment and manage a relatively predictable workload.
Average annual income: $46,196 to $134,541
Minimum skills: research skills, data analytic skills, and writing skills
Required certifications: It depends. Researchers in science and medical fields may need to acquire specific certificates
23. Electrician
As time passes, electricians no longer handle as much stress as they used to. Modern technology helped electricians work safer and faster. They may even remotely control their tasks through a computer.
Average annual income: $42,929 to $53,621
Minimum skills: technical skills, proficiency in handling tools, management skills, and teamwork skills
Required certifications: high school diploma and state license; however, the academic qualifications necessary for an electrician may include a technical degree, certificate, or an apprenticeship
24. Plumber
Whether working independently or under a company, plumbers lead low-stress careers. They work at their own pace, and there is not much pressure on their tasks. Modern technology also made their job easier and safer.
Average annual income: $47,500 to $62,600
Minimum skills: technical skills, proficiency in handling tools, management skills, and teamwork skills
Required certifications: high school diploma and state license
25. Private chef
Unlike restaurant chefs, private chefs do not work in a highly stressful environment. Since most clients will book ahead of time or at a more predictable schedule, work hours are generally flexible.
Average annual income: It depends.
Minimum skills: cooking skills
Required certifications: none
26. Baker
Baking can be physically and mentally tiring, but the stress is tolerable compared to many jobs in the food industry. Unlike other cooks, bakers do not work beyond store hours.
Average annual income: $30,133 to $41,224
Minimum skills: cooking and baking skills
Required certifications: none; however, bakers may acquire certificates to be a Certified Journey Baker (CJB), Certified Journey Decorator (CJD), or Certified Baker (CB) from Retail Bakers of America
27. Cosmetologist
Cosmetology can be a low-stress career, especially when you are a specialist. Most cosmetologists work through appointments, so they have control over their work schedule.
Average annual income: $23,401 and $34,601
Minimum skills: hair care, skin care, nail care, cosmetics, and men’s grooming
Required certifications: state license
28. Shelf stocker
If you are looking for a job with low-level social interaction, try becoming a shelf-stocker. This behind-the-scene position follows routine tasks that do not change often.
Average annual income: $18,500 to $31,000
Minimum skills: organizational skills
Required certifications: none
29. Factory worker
Similar to being a shelf stocker, working as a factory worker also requires low-level social interaction. Besides being a low-stress occupation, this position does not require workers to acquire certificate programs.
Average annual income: $28,275 to $32,512
Minimum skills: organizational skills
Required certifications: none
30. Personal driver
The stress levels of being a personal driver depend on the clients. Working for a family or company with few employees may be ideal. Personal drivers may not always have to be on the road all day.
Average annual income: $40,950 to $58,500
Minimum skills: organizational skills
Required certifications: driver’s license
Courses you can take to overcome anxiety
With too much stress existing in the world, humans need to learn how to relax and recover. Aside from undergoing appropriate treatment and pampering oneself, it is more pragmatic to expand one’s knowledge by learning relevant courses. Overcoming anxiety can happen virtually, too. Check out these online courses:
Anxiety and Stress Management Coaching
Anxiety And Stress Management Coaching is an underrated course that trains life coaches to change lives. This two-hour program packs integral lessons on stress and anxiety and how these factors cause an imbalance in people’s emotional happiness.
In addition to theoretical and practical discussions on stress and anxiety-inducing conditions, this course also includes widely used strategies that enable people to attain their mental health goals. This beginner-friendly course guides anyone interested in making stress management their career path.
Master Your Emotions: Uncertainty, Stress, Anxiety, and Fear
Becoming a slave to one’s emotions is a toxic and destructive habit. Elements like uncertainty, stress, social anxiety, and fear can sometimes be overwhelming, but they are not uncontrollable. Master Your Emotions: Uncertainty, Stress, Anxiety, and Fear is the course that helps people reclaim their lives and keep emotional balance.
The main goal of this program is to keep people with anxiety disorders or any mental health issues from spiraling into dangerous thoughts and habits.
Effective Anxiety Management
People fail to realize that not all ways of coping with social anxiety disorder are healthy. Depending on personal circumstances, one’s approach to anxiety management can do more harm than good. Effective Anxiety Management is a newbie’s guide to a healthier way to overcome anxiety and its overarching challenges.
This course imparts tools and lessons on anxiety reduction within 30 minutes. Beginners should not worry because this program contains easy-to-follow steps with thorough explanations.
Learn The Secrets Of Beating Anxiety
Chronic anxiety makes people think that life is a losing battle. If you are falling into this dark spiral, invest some time to Learn The Secrets of Beating Anxiety. This compact course will demonstrate how to live a healthier and anxiety-free life.
You have control over anxiety. This program will highlight your power against negative emotions and what you can do to attain emotional stability. To be specific, there are exercises on preventing burnout and banishing panic.
Protect your mental health with a low-stress job
It is ideal to recommend low-stress jobs for people with anxiety disorders. While their situation is challenging, they can still succeed in life by unlocking the right job opportunities. For their mental well-being, they may find inner peace through positive affirmations.
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