Not working

There are lots of reasons why you may not be working. Maybe you are not currently working because you are ill from depression. Or maybe you have depression because you have been made redundant or haven’t been able to find work.

A massive 43% of people who replied to our monthly poll in September 2009 either said they weren't working and it made them feel down or that they weren't working because of depression so you are not alone.

  1. Anxious about money
  2. Low and bored because you have nothing to do and no money to do anything
  3. Lonely, if all your friends and family are out working or studying and you’re not
  4. Bad about yourself if you’re getting knockbacks for jobs
  5. Worried about your future prospects
  6. Guilty because other people expect you to be working.

It’s no wonder a lot of people who are out of work feel crap!

There are steps you can take while out of work to improve your mood.

  1. If you are currently too unwell to work try not to feel guilty. You have an illness and like any illness, you'll feel better sooner if you take time to recover. 
  2. Plan a task every day to give yourself purpose.  This may be applying for a job or something that you enjoy.
  3. Exercise regularly.  
  4. Introduce a regular bed time and getting up time. Don't get into the habit of staying up late and sleeping in late. Save the long lies for the weekend.
  5. Do things that make you focus your mind and increase your concentration, like a Sudoku or crossword or a brain training game.
  6. Set yourself a goal. Make it something that is achievable and will give you a sense of purpose.  You can set goals and get support in the Community section of this website.
  7. Don't ignore financial problems, they only become worse. Visit our money page for sources of help and support.

Voluntary work can be very rewarding and can be a good way back into the workplace.  Benefits include:

  1. Increased confidence 
  2. Something to get up for each morning
  3. Not as much pressure and stress as paid work
  4. Work experience to put on your CV!

The major downside is that you don’t get paid.  If you’re on benefits, volunteering shouldn’t affect your benefits but you will need to tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Maybe you could go back to college or do a course. There’s a whole range of courses you could do, ranging from short courses to degrees.  Many local authority adult education classes have discounts for people who are on benefits.

If you’re looking for a job at the moment, you’re not alone.  There is help out there for you.  Ask at your local job centre or contact one of the organisations listed at the side.

Further help

  1. Careers Scotland - information about careers and advice on applying for jobs.
  2. Citizens Advice - advice and information on a variety of matters including benefits, debt, employment and the NHS.   Call Citizens Advice Direct on 0844 848 9600 or visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau 
  3. Volunteer Scotland - volunteer opportunities throughout Scotland