Globally, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of US$1 trillion per year in lost productivity [1]. In the US, millions of people experience anxiety disorders which affect their employment. For those in recovery from substance abuse who experience anxiety, it can be challenging to find employment that accommodates both conditions.
Anxiety disorders are also common and can entail a recurring fear of and/or difficulty in managing situations in everyday life, feelings of nervousness and hopelessness, and exaggerated concerns. When suffering from depression, symptoms of anxiety are quite common and vice versa [2].
Your career options are not limited because you are living with anxiety. The right job can provide stability, purpose, and be a key component of your recovery journey. In this article, I describe the main types of anxiety, the relationship with the recovery process, best suited types of jobs, and accommodations that may be expected.
Types of Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are different from transitional anxiety experienced during events such as moving into a new home, or beginning a new job. Individuals with anxiety disorders may experience feelings of panic; extreme physical, mental, or emotional stress; and intense fear.
Symptoms can present in numerous ways and significantly impact the functionality of individuals with anxiety disorders who are in recovery. In fact, there is a wide variety of anxiety disorders, including [3]:
- Generalized anxiety disorder.
- Acute stress disorder.
- Substance-induced anxiety disorder.
- Anxiety disorder due to a general medical condition.
- Anxiety disorder not otherwise specified.
- Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Social phobia.
- Specific phobias.
Key Job Qualities to Look For
Ideal characteristics of jobs for those experiencing anxiety include:
- Predictability and Structure: Clear tasks, consistent routines, and defined expectations.
- Low-Stress Environment: Minimal pressure deadlines or office politics.
- Manageable Social Interaction: Choices for independent work, small teams, or written communication over intense customer-facing responsibilities.
- Autonomy: The opportunity to manage your own workflow and make decisions.
- Meaning and Purpose: A connection to your work that provides motivation and counters anxious thoughts.
- Supportive (or independent) environment. Employers who recognize that providing accommodations is a workplace best practice.
Jobs with these qualities exist in many fields. There is no one-size-fits-all “best job.” What triggers one person may be manageable for another.
Top Job Roles for People with Anxiety
The following illustrate examples of jobs which may be most suitable for people with anxiety.
The Focused and Independent Worker
Roles that involve concentration, minimal interruption, and clear outcomes. May be skilled trades and hands-on work: These reduce social overload and provide a sense of control and accomplishment.
- Data Analyst: Uses analytical thinking with numbers and patterns.
- Software Developer/Programmer: Applies logical thinking to code solutions.
- Transcriptionist: Does repetitive tasks but where quality really counts.
- Lab Technician: Performs technical procedural work in a controlled setting.
- Gardener/Landscaper: Creates practical results with independence.
The Creative and Expressive Soul
Flexible work that allows for self-expression with an outlet for emotion.
- Graphic Designer: Creates visual outcomes, often as a freelancer.
- Writer/Editor: Suitable for those who communicate better through writing than speaking.
- Craftsperson or Artist (e.g., potter, jeweler): Hands-on work with materials.
The Helper and Nurturer
Helping others, animals, or the environment. Anxiety can be reduced by focusing on the needs of others.
- Veterinary Technician: Cares for animals which is less socially demanding.
- Landscaper/Gardener: Stress is reduced with physical, outdoor work in nature.
- IT Support Specialist: Solves discrete technical problems, often with a clear script and process.
- Researcher (in a specific field): Creates knowledge in a specific area of interest.
The Organized and Systematic Thinker
Creating order, managing data, or following detailed procedures in structured and predictable roles. Anxiety often craves order; these roles create a sense of security.
- Archivist or Librarian: Works with organized systems in a quiet, calm environment.
- Bookkeeper/Accountant: Handles numbers and rules in a structured way.
- Medical Records Technician: Processes sensitive data in a confidential setting.
- Supply Chain Logistician: Optimizes and manages processes and inventory.
Key Work Accommodations for Those With Anxiety
One study found that where clients with depression and anxiety received employment support, the recovery rate was 47%, but that a lower rate of 27% was observed where clients did not receive employment support [4].
For individuals with mental health impairments, the following accommodations to help manage anxiety-related panic attacks can be helpful.
- Flexible schedule.
- Modified break schedule.
- Rest area/private space.
- Support animal.
- Support person.
- Identify and reduce triggers.
Seeking Help and the Path to Recovery at Northbound
At Northbound, we have extensive experience helping patients overcome their substance abuse addictions, and with a faith-based track for those wishing to participate.
The first steps are detoxification and stabilization, under 24-hour medical supervision in our Withdrawal Management center for whatever time you may require.
We offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies, counseling, and trauma-informed support to assist you in your healing. We personalize each treatment plan around the needs of our patients.
Our inpatient residential program offers 24/7 live-in treatment for substance abuse. Our outpatient treatment provides a flexible step-down from our residential program, allowing you to live at home and participate for several hours a day.
For more than 30 years, Northbound Treatment Services in California has been at the forefront of providing lifesaving, compassionate residential care and specialized services to help people from all walks of life feel better, discover themselves, and live free from addiction.
We have facilities located throughout California to help guide you on your recovery journey. Reach out to our admissions team now.
Sources
[1] World Health Organization. 2024. Mental health at work.
[2] Gunnarsson, A. et al (2021). Occupational performance problems in people with depression and anxiety. Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 30(2), 148–158.
[3] ASTTBC Technology Professionals. nd. Workplace Accommodations.
[4] Thew, G. et al. (2024). The addition of employment support alongside psychological therapy enhances the chance of recovery for clients most at risk of poor clinical outcomes. Behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy, 52(1), 93–99.
Author
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President, CEO & Founder at Northbound Treatment Network
Paul Alexander is the CEO, President & Founder of Northbound Treatment Network in Newport Beach, California. He believes wholeheartedly in transformational leadership, organizational health and effective, fully integrated substance use disorder and mental health treatment. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, Paul has extensive knowledge of “in vivo” treatment modalities, clinical development, operations, strategy, marketing and financial planning. He has been widely recognized for his development of collegiate-based residential treatment programs for students in recovery and authored a research study at The University of California confirming this modality’s effectiveness.
Paul’s comprehensive professional experience, willingness to innovate, and emphasis on organizational health are vital factors in Northbound’s continued success. Paul received his Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist training at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA, and was awarded Outstanding Alumni Service Award in 2002. Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, Law and Society, Summa Cum Laude, from University of California, Irvine, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles. Paul currently serves on The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) board. In addition, he serves on The Family Recovery Foundation board and The CarePossible board in Orange County; both organizations are committed to raising funds for family recovery and treatment for former military personnel. Paul is in recovery himself and lives in Orange County with his wife Silvana and his two young sons, Noah and Dean.
