Why the Gig Economy Can Be a Blessing for Those with Mental Health Issues

Finding a job that pays well, allows you to live your life on your own terms, makes you happy, and is full-time and permanent is hard enough. Doing so when you struggle with mental health problems can be a real bear. While it’s no panacea, gig-based employment — often referred to as jobs in the gig economy — can be of some assistance to those dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Ruth for the Broken explains why.

What is the gig economy, exactly?

Succinctly put, the gig economy is the collection of jobs — predominantly temporary in nature — that can be described as freelance or contract-based. Wonolo points out that the gig economy comprises all sorts of jobs that are performed on an on-demand basis. Driving for Uber is a classic example of a gig economy job, but there are hundreds more. A large majority of gig jobs are now run through apps and online services. It’s thought that at least 57 million people are active in the gig economy, notes Forbes, and that number is likely to increase over the next decade.

What the gig economy can offer you

Working on a contract basis affords you ultimate flexibility. You decide when to work, where to work, and how much work to take on in any given week. You can work as much or as little as you want, depending on your financial needs. Whether you set up your own small business operation performing contract work, find gigs through an app or online service, or find a company willing to give you on-demand work, you in essence get to be your own boss. This — without a doubt — helps you reduce stress and fight off much of the anxiety that comes with holding down a traditional 9-to-5 job.

How to start earning

First off, consider what kind of contract work best suits your lifestyle, skills, and desires. If you are great with pets, starting a dog walking or dog sitting gig could be a good option. Know your way around town? Think driving or delivery. Pretty handy around the house? Consider a service like Handy or TaskRabbit that matches you with people looking for handyman services.

While apps are all the rage in the gig economy, don’t think that you can’t use your existing skills to start your own small business. For instance, if you have experience in accounting or consulting, you can offer your services on a contract basis and be your own boss. Starting a small business is simple if you know what you’re doing. Simple doesn’t mean easy, of course, but it can be a streamlined process if you consult a step-by-step guide.

Whatever you decide to do, be sure to stand out from the crowd with an easily identifiable, professional-looking logo. Your logo will appear on everything from your website and social media posts to your business cards and letterhead. You can easily make a logo using Adobe’s free online tool, which comes with a ton of professionally designed templates that can be customized to match your brand and messaging. You can also take advantage of scores of images or use your own.

What to strive for in a gig economy role

Despite these clear benefits to gig work, there can be some drawbacks if you don’t do it right. Luckily, if you focus on maintaining a few basic principles of proper work structure, you can negate or at least mitigate some of the isolation and disorder that some feel while working gigs.

First, designate a place to work (or at least keep your paperwork and schedule together if your gig involves out-of-the-home work). Running a business from home demands it. Consider turning a spare room or a section of your basement or attic into a home office. Not only does this dedicated space allow you to better focus on business, certain upgrades to your home can increase your property’s appraisal value should you decide to sell one day.

Working from home also requires you to set a work routine. This will help keep you grounded and motivated. It’s important to be able to avoid distractions when working from home.

Strive to find stability, routine, social interaction, and a purpose in your work. This will help you reap the benefits of working in the gig economy. For many with mental health issues, the flexibility and self-determining aspects of gigs allow for a much better work experience.

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