It’s no secret: job hunting can be a seriously stressful gig that takes a toll on the best of us at one point or another. Some would agree that although the process of sending resumes, writing cover letters, and pressing submit, seems simple most of us know that isn’t the case. The process can be highly time-consuming and overwhelming. Let’s face it; it’s common to spend hours upon hours scrolling through job advertisements and applying to each applicable one relevant to your experience. And this can lead to a very miserable time causing your mental health to decline.

So, in the spirit of World Mental Health Day next week, we have rounded up our top tips so you can look after your mental health while you job hunt. It’s so vital to ensure that while you try to level up in job status, you look after your sanity! To gain some peace of mind consider the below:

1. Exercise, exercise, exercise

Engaging in physical activities can help boost your mental wellbeing as it enhances your mood and lessens your stress levels. Exercising releases chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin (the happy hormone), which can improve attitudes — just looking after your physical health can significantly better your mental health. To take that one step further, you can also try limiting your alcohol intake, processed foods, and get a healthy amount of sleep each night.

2. Put a routine in place

Establishing a routine that suits your lifestyle is imperative to have when you’re job hunting. Forming a routine and delegating set times to apply for new jobs will help you stay on track and gain momentum while you search. And if you don’t already, start by ticking off what you’ve achieved each day while you’re job hunting. This will help you feel accomplished and fulfilled while applying for and seeking new roles.

CV: Check! Updated cover letter: Check! Follow-up emails: Check!

You’ll find that writing a checklist and tracking your progress can do plenty for your wellbeing. Outside of working and applying for roles, remember to also schedule some leisurely time in and do what you enjoy.

3. Reach out to your family and friends

Family members and friends can make our days feel 1000 times better. Ever had a bad day, and your pals are right there to pick you back up? Exactly, it helps. Excessive job hunting can be isolating, so you’ll want to surround yourself with supportive family and friends to lift your spirits and to avoid loneliness. If you need to vent about your exhausting job search to your closest family members go for it — better out than in, right? And you’ll feel a whole lot better for it too.

4. Stay as positive as possible

We know it can be hard to remain positive while you’re down in the dumps seeking out job after job. But it’s essential to maintain a positive frame of mind to keep your mental health from declining. But how does one stay positive? Sure, it’s easier said than done, but if you surround yourself with positive people, practise positive self-talk and affirmations, follow a healthy lifestyle, and don’t degrade yourself it can be done.

5. Don’t look at your challenges negatively

Like positive thinking, don’t let your challenges get in the way of your future success. It can be easy to fall down the rabbit hole and let unresponsive applications get the better of you but consider it a challenge instead of looking at it negatively. Negative thinking will only delay you from soaring. Keep in mind that rejection isn’t personal.

If you think you need professional help, we recommend getting in touch with or visiting the official websites of mental health organisations such as Black Dog Institute, Sane Australia, Beyond Blue, and Lifeline.