37 Low-stress jobs for people with anxiety or social anxiety

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-orange-long-sleeve-shirt-sitting-on-gray-couch-rXrMy7mXUEs

According to the statistics, about 4% of the global population, or 301 million people have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are the most common illness in the world. Finding a job with this mental health condition is challenging, as you need to find a comfortable environment that will not trigger your anxiety and give you job satisfaction.

Topics	Details
Creative Jobs	details...
1. Graphic Designer	details...
2. Photographer	details...
3. Artist	details...
4. Video Editor	details...
5. Interior Designer	details...
Technology and IT Jobs	details...
1. Computer Programmer or IT Specialist	details...
2. Web Developer	details...
3. Data Analyst	details...
Writing and Content Creation	details...
1. Freelance Writer	details...
2. Social Media Specialist	details...
3. Journalist	details...
Manual and Technical Jobs	details...
1. Electrician	details...
2. Plumber	details...
3. Mechanic	details...
4. Baker	details...
Health and Wellness Jobs	details...
1. Counselor or Psychologist	details...
2. Massage Therapist	details...
3. Fitness Instructor	details...
Administrative and Office Jobs	details...
1. Data Entry Clerk	details...
2. Librarian	details...
3. Medical Transcriptionist	details...
4. Accountant	details...
5. Archivist	details...
Outdoor and Physical Jobs	details...
1. Groundskeeper or Gardener	details...
2. Delivery Driver	details...
Animal-Related Jobs	details...
1. Pet Groomer	details...
2. Veterinary Technician	details...
Education and Tutoring	details...
1. Tutor	details...
2. Teacher	details...
Miscellaneous Jobs	details...
1. Janitor	details...
2. Factory Worker	details...
3. Stocker or Receiver	details...
Jobs to avoid for people with anxiety	details...
1. Customer Service Representative	details...
2. Salesperson	details...
3. Public Relations Manager	details...
4. Public Speaker	details...
5. Event Planner	details...

In this article, we've prepared an extensive list of the best jobs for people with anxiety symptoms. These jobs offer minimal social interaction, predictable routines, and a low-stress environment to help you manage your mental health issues and take care of yourself.

How does the list work? Look through the list of jobs for people with anxiety disorders and click on the job title to jump right to the detailed description. Feel free to choose the job that best accommodates your type of anxiety, be it a social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or health anxiety.

Best jobs for people with anxiety disorders

Here's a structured and organized version of the job list, grouped by categories and including Average Annual Salary, Pros, and Cons for each:

Creative Jobs

1. Graphic Designer

• Average Annual Salary: $53,380
• Pros: Creative work, flexible hours, ability to work remotely
• Cons: Competitive field, deadlines can be stressful

Careers in arts are typically comforting and relaxing for people with anxiety disorders. If you have design skills and know photo editing software, you can create logos, websites, brochures, social media graphics, and other visual materials for clients. Moreover, this job offers an outlet for your creative expression and you can earn money at the same time.

The job is perfect for people with mental health conditions, as you can work autonomously. Many graphic design jobs are available remotely, allowing you to work at your own pace and minimize client interactions.

2. Photographer

• Average Annual Salary: $41,280
• Pros: Creative outlet, flexible schedule, variety in work
• Cons: Inconsistent income, need for self-promotion

Photographer is another flexible low-stress job for people with anxiety. Photographers work in studios, on location, or remotely, capturing images for artistic or commercial purposes. You can choose a genre of photography that appeals to you, be it portrait, landscape, or fashion photography.

Although the job does involve client interaction, you can manage your schedule and work at a comfortable pace. Plus, you can work independently or as a freelancer, which makes it a dream job if you're seeking a low-pressure environment.

3. Artist

• Average Annual Salary: $50,550
• Pros: High creative freedom, flexible hours
• Cons: Unpredictable income, requires self-promotion

Many people with anxiety choose artistic careers, so if you have a passion for painting, sculpting, or digital art, you can turn it into a rewarding job. Artists work independently in a quiet environment, which is perfect if you have severe social anxiety or panic disorder. You can create artwork for galleries and private collectors, or focus on commercial work. Moreover, producing creative work can be therapeutic and bring you a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

4. Video Editor

• Average Annual Salary: $63,780
• Pros: Creative work, flexible hours, high demand
• Cons: Long hours, tight deadlines

Video editors turn raw footage into finished videos for commercial purposes. They work for TV and film studios, advertising agencies, or as freelancers, managing their own schedules. If you seek a stimulating, fast-paced environment, this career might be right for you. There are no high educational requirements - in most cases, you will need a high school diploma and proficiency with video editing software. However, tight deadlines and work pressure might be overwhelming for some.

5. Interior Designer

• Average Annual Salary: $57,060
• Pros: Creative and fulfilling, flexible hours
• Cons: Client management can be stressful, competitive field

The interior designer job offers limited interactions with people and a great work-life balance as you can manage your schedule. Interior designers work with clients, creating unique designs for living spaces, offices, and outdoor spaces. Although there is a customer service element, interior designers often work with the same clients and choose when to work, which helps in managing anxiety.

Technology and IT Jobs

1. Computer Programmer or IT Specialist

• Average Annual Salary: $89,190
• Pros: High demand, good salary, potential for remote work
• Cons: Long hours, constant need to update skills

Although most IT jobs are fast-paced and stimulating, there are some jobs for people with anxiety available in this sector. As a computer programmer, you can write code, test, and maintain computer software. Programmers develop websites, and applications, or maintain computer systems. This job offers competitive salaries, opportunities for growth, and potential for remote work, which is helpful in managing your condition.

Looking to get hired faster as a tech professional? Read our guide on how to write a technical resume that gets you noticed even in the competitive job market.

2. Web Developer

• Average Annual Salary: $77,200
• Pros: High demand, flexible hours, potential for remote work
• Cons: Fast-paced industry, requires continuous learning

Web developers build and maintain websites, designing the user interface and ensuring that it is easy to navigate. It is not always a low-stress job, but it requires little social interaction as web developers mostly work by themselves. Moreover, you can work flexible hours or remotely. It is possible to get hired without a Master's degree, but keep in mind that the field is fast-paced and requires ongoing learning.

3. Data Analyst

• Average Annual Salary: $62,453
• Pros: High demand, good salary, analytical work
• Cons: Repetitive tasks, requires attention to detail

Data analysts collect, clean and analyze data to identify insights and customer patterns. They help businesses make data-driven decisions that will benefit the company's bottom line. This job is suitable for people with social anxiety disorder, but it requires strong analytical skills and the ability to process complex information. However, if repetitive tasks appeal to you, a data analysis career can be rewarding.

3. Writing and Content Creation

1. Freelance Writer

• Average Annual Salary: $63,200
• Pros: Flexible schedule, can work from anywhere
• Cons: Inconsistent income, requires self-discipline

If you're seeking remote low-stress jobs, the freelance writing field offers untapped possibilities. You can specialize in a particular niche or type of texts, for example, blog posts, articles, website copy, social media posts, books, and more. The income won't be very high at the beginning, but you can manage the workload to fit into your daily life and maintain a comfortable personal space. Plus, the creative aspect of writing can also be a therapeutic outlet for your mental illness.

2. Social Media Specialist

• Average Annual Salary: $51,210
• Pros: Creative work, flexible hours, growing field
• Cons: Can be stressful, always need to be online

As many businesses grow their online presence, social media managers are in growing demand. In this role, you will create content for social media platforms, engage audiences, build brand awareness, and drive traffic to the website. You can work at the office or remotely. Keep in mind, however, that you'll need to communicate online a lot, which can be challenging. Plus, if you work as a freelancer, the income may be inconsistent.

3. Journalist

• Average Annual Salary: $49,300
• Pros: Engaging work, potential for travel
• Cons: Deadlines can be stressful, competitive field

If you don't have a severe social anxiety disorder, a journalist career can be fulfilling as you can share information and make a difference through your writing. Journalists research and report on the events for online resources or traditional newspapers. As a journalist, you can also travel and explore various topics. Note that this field is super competitive and requires resilience.

4. Manual and Technical Jobs

1. Electrician

• Average Annual Salary: $56,180
• Pros: High demand, good pay, hands-on work
• Cons: Physically demanding, can be hazardous

Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in buildings. They work with electrical equipment, ensuring its safety and functionality. Skilled electricians are always in demand, and the structured nature of work can be comforting if you have anxiety symptoms. The job doesn't require a college degree - you only need vocational training and apprenticeships to get started. Plus, you will encounter little social interaction.

2. Plumber

• Average Annual Salary: $55,160
• Pros: High demand, good pay, hands-on work
• Cons: Physically demanding, can be dirty work

Many manual jobs are low-stress and provide a structured environment, which can be therapeutical when you have a mental health condition. Plumbing is an example of such a job. Plumbers install and maintain water and drainage systems. They use technical knowledge to fix drainage systems. The job offers high demand, good pay, and the satisfaction of hands-on work. However, it can be physically demanding at times.

3. Mechanic

• Average Annual Salary: $44,050
• Pros: High demand, steady work, hands-on
• Cons: Physically demanding, can be stressful

Mechanics diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles. This job with minimal social interaction involves following specific procedures and using diagnostic tools. You will work with engines and mechanical systems to ensure the efficient operation of vehicles. Like other manual jobs, it offers the satisfaction of fixing something and steady work. However, you may face stressful and conflict situations at times.

4. Baker

• Average Annual Salary: $27,700
• Pros: Creative work, fulfilling
• Cons: Early mornings, physically demanding

Baker is a great fulfilling career for people with anxiety disorder. Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-gray-crew-neck-t-shirt-holding-pizza-IJcAs5GiecA

Baker is a structured job that involves working with your hands and preparing delicious pastry. Bakers prepare breads, cakes, and other goods, and often work independently. The job offers creative expression and the satisfaction of creating something, which allows you to practice self-care if you have anxiety. Moreover, following specific instructions and measurements will help you achieve a sense of control.

5. Health and Wellness Jobs

1. Counselor or Psychologist

• Average Annual Salary: $82,180
• Pros: Fulfilling work, high demand
• Cons: Emotionally demanding, requires advanced education

Becoming a healthcare professional and helping others is common in people with mental health issues, including anxiety. For example, psychologists work with individuals and groups to address various mental, emotional, and behavioral issues, and help improve their well-being.

The job requires a relevant Master's degree and a license, and ongoing extensive training. However, these efforts pay off, as you get to make a difference in people's lives and can have a private practice in a peaceful environment.

2. Massage Therapist

• Average Annual Salary: $43,620
• Pros: Flexible schedule, rewarding work
• Cons: Physically demanding, requires certification

Massage therapist is a low stress job that offers a flexible schedule, allows for autonomy and control over the work environment. Massage therapists provide massages to patients, promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension, and improving overall health. The job can be physically demanding but it's also rewarding as you can help people relax and relieve stress. Plus, the hands-on approach and the focus on relaxation can be soothing if you have anxiety.

3. Fitness Instructor

• Average Annual Salary: $45,110
• Pros: Flexible schedule, active work
• Cons: Inconsistent income, physically demanding

Fitness instructor is a perfect job if you love physical activity and want to manage your schedule. To become an instructor, you need only a high school diploma and a general certification. The job involves leading group fitness classes, providing personal training sessions, and designing workout plans for clients. However, it involves listening and interaction with clients, and requires a high level of energy.

6. Administrative and Office Jobs

1. Data Entry Clerk

• Average Annual Salary: $34,440
• Pros: Low stress, consistent work
• Cons: Can be repetitive, low salary

Data entry clerks input information into databases and spreadsheets. This job is repetitive and monotonous, and therefore can be appealing to those with social anxiety disorders. It is low-stress and offers consistent workload, and the main responsibilities involve typing, formatting, and verifying data for accuracy. The downsides are that this career offers a low pay and limited opportunities for advancement.

2. Librarian

• Average Annual Salary: $60,820
• Pros: Quiet work environment, intellectually stimulating
• Cons: Requires advanced education, limited job openings

Librarian is a perfect job for a bookworm. Librarians manage collections in the library, assist patrons with research, and also organize educational and cultural events. They work in universities, libraries, and archives. The quiet work environment, structured tasks, and the intellectual nature of work is often appealing for people with anxiety. However, job openings are limited, and this career requires extensive education.

3. Medical Transcriptionist

• Average Annual Salary: $35,270
• Pros: Can work remotely, steady work
• Cons: Can be repetitive, low salary

Medical transcriptionists convert voice recordings from physicians into text for patient records and medical reports. This is one of the most low-stress jobs for people with anxiety, as it offers potential for remote work and the tasks are structured and predictable. However, preparing accurate medical documentation can be too repetitive and the salary isn't impressive.

4. Accountant

• Average Annual Salary: $73,560
• Pros: Good salary, high demand
• Cons: Can be stressful, requires attention to detail

Accountants prepare financial statements, manage records, and analyze data to support data-driven business decisions. They are in demand in every industry, and can work in the office or remotely. Accounting careers offer a good salary and growth prospects, which makes them an appealing option for many. The job requires attention to detail and the ability to follow specific rules and procedures.

For those looking to start the career in accounting, these resume writing tips for accounting jobs can be helpful.

5. Archivist

• Average Annual Salary: $54,830
• Pros: Quiet work environment, fulfilling work
• Cons: Requires advanced education, limited job openings

Archivists manage and preserve valuable historical records for future generations. You'll work in a peaceful environment and get the opportunity to work with significant historical documents and artifacts. However, just like the librarian career, it is difficult to enter because you need advanced education and the job openings are limited.

7. Outdoor and Physical Jobs

1. Groundskeeper or Gardener

• Average Annual Salary: $32,000
• Pros: Active work, outdoors
• Cons: Physically demanding, low salary

For those looking for low-stress jobs with physical activity, gardening can be a perfect option. Gardeners maintain parks, residential areas, and other outdoor spaces, doing the mowing, planting, and weeding. As a gardener, you can work outdoor and enjoy fresh air. Work is predictable with repetitive tasks, but can be physically demanding.

2. Delivery Driver

• Average Annual Salary: $36,650
• Pros: Independent work, active job
• Cons: Traffic, long hours

Delivery drivers transport packages and goods. The job offers autonomy and independence, as you can set your own pace at work. Plus, it is easy to get started as no education or training is needed. However, the job can be stressful due to traffic, long hours, and unpredictable situations with clients. It might not be suitable for those who are easily overwhelmed.

8. Animal-Related Jobs

1. Pet Groomer

• Average Annual Salary: $29,760
• Pros: Rewarding work, flexible schedule
• Cons: Physically demanding, can be inconsistent

Pet groomers bathe, trim, and style animals, which can be a rewarding career if you love pets. It also has the potential for flexibility and you can work from home. Plus, if you have anxiety, working with animals can be incredibly therapeutic, and the physical activity the job involves will benefit your health and well-being.

2. Veterinary Technician

• Average Annual Salary: $35,320
• Pros: Working with animals, fulfilling
• Cons: Emotionally demanding, requires certification

Vet technicians assist veterinarians with examining animals, taking vital signs, and administering medications. This job allows you to work with animals and take care of their well-being. However, it requires a high level of compassion and empathy, and can be physically demanding.

9. Education and Tutoring

1. Tutor

• Average Annual Salary: $39,350
• Pros: Flexible schedule, rewarding
• Cons: Inconsistent income, requires patience

Being an online tutor is a great job for people with anxiety. You can provide instruction to students of all ages and help them improve their performance without the necessity to meet face-to face. You can teach any academic subject or the English language to foreigners. Plus, you can have a flexible schedule and manage your workload.

2. Teacher

• Average Annual Salary: $62,870
• Pros: Rewarding work, good benefits
• Cons: Can be stressful, requires advanced education

If your anxiety isn't severe, you can work with students in the classroom. The work of a teacher can be extremely rewarding, especially if you are passionate about your subject. The downside is, the job requires a lot of patience and strong conflict management skills.

10. Miscellaneous Jobs

1. Janitor

• Average Annual Salary: $29,080
• Pros: Independent work, steady job
• Cons: Physically demanding, low salary

On Reddit, you can find many stories from people with anxiety disorders working as janitors or cleaners. This monotonous and repetitive jobs allows you to be on your own while offering a steady income and independent work. However, physical fitness and stamina are required.

2. Factory Worker

• Average Annual Salary: $32,840
• Pros: Steady work, structured environment
• Cons: Physically demanding, repetitive tasks

Another good option if you prefer physical work and repetitive tasks. As a factory worker, you will operate the machinery, assemble products, and inspect goods. The job offers routine and predictability with clear expectations, but can be physically demanding.

3. Stocker or Receiver

• Average Annual Salary: $28,600
• Pros: Steady work, independent
• Cons: Physically demanding, low salary

Stockers and receivers work in warehouses and retail settings. They receive and organize goods, and maintain the inventory, often in a team. The main downside is low salary.

Jobs to avoid for people with anxiety

1. Customer Service Representative

• Average Annual Salary: $35,830
• Pros: High demand, structured environment
• Cons: High stress, constant interaction

This job requires constant interaction with customers and addressing their questions and issues. Dealing with upset clients can be stressful if you have anxiety and cannot work under pressure.

2. Salesperson

• Average Annual Salary: $44,270
• Pros: Potential for high earnings, variety
• Cons: High stress, requires constant interaction

If you have anxiety symptoms, a retail job isn't the best option. It requires heavy interaction with people, including dealing with rejection. All this can negatively affect your mental well-being.

3. Public Relations Manager

• Average Annual Salary: $118,430
• Pros: High salary, dynamic work
• Cons: High stress, constant interaction

PR managers manage company's communication with the public and extensively communicate with media and stakeholders. The job is stressful and requires excellent communication skills, which may be overwhelming if you have anxiety.

4. Public Speaker

• Average Annual Salary: Varies widely
• Pros: High potential earnings, influential
• Cons: High stress, requires confidence

Public speaking requires a high level of confidence and the ability to work with a large audience. People with anxiety often struggle speaking in front of the crowd and experience performance anxiety, which makes it not the best career choice.

5. Event Planner

• Average Annual Salary: $51,560
• Pros: Creative and dynamic work
• Cons: High stress, requires constant interaction

Event planners is a fast-paced, hectic job, as it involves tight deadlines, last-minute changes, and fast problem-solving. Plus, you need to be always in touch with clients, vendors, and attendees.

As you see, there are plenty of jobs for people with anxiety disorder. You can find one that perfectly matches your interests and preferences. However, you need to do some homework first. Take the time to identify your anxiety triggers and understand what working conditions will be good for your mental health.

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