Trying to apply for jobs is overwhelming and I really don't know what to do.

Stellar

See title.

I know what i've got to do.

at i need to parse, match with my own experience, then translate it into an acceptable marketing pitch for an employer.

but seeing all this information and having to parse it from the job description is so overwhelming, i'm often unable to get started. or when i try to, i have to write bullet point notes while fighting off panic attacks, then try again tomorrow to write the full thing.

or when i do and can send stuff off, it takes absolutely **** forever to send an application. i can take breaks, but it can take me days, often having to play video games for hours afterwards then try again the next day to make a tiny bit more progress.

all this to send only 1 or 2 applications off a week, of which then I never hear back from them. or i only get rejection emails. it feels like a complete and total waste of time.

it should not take 4-5 hours over multiple days to complete one job application. it should take an hour maximum. Ironically enough, there are some days i can manage my anxiety and do multiple per day.

i feel like whatever i produce has to be 100% perfect in order to stand a chance of getting an interview. and while i know 100% perfect is unrealistic, there are legitimate things i need to deal with (such as the ATS screening software employers use).

moreover, even with template letters and CVs i can modify, I'm finding it so overwhelming. at this point, i'm convinced this is a me problem, rather than the lack of strategy

I've tried going self-employed, but despite all the skills and experiences I've learnt along the way, it's been a total failure in terms of making enough to live on. Plus looking back, I was trying to run away from my workplace trauma and anxiety by trying to avoid the workplace and all to do with it. So in reality, I need to confront this anxiety. I have no other choice.

Alternatively, are there any medications that i could take to completely numb myself from these anxious feelings so i can get stuff done?

i'll be fine once i make it to the interview stages (so long as i practise), but i haven't even made it that far yet.

and this is before mentioning things like networking on linkedin, which is a struggle in its own right. but at least i can do that sometimes (which is much better compared to a few years ago).

if i didnt need to leave the UK for my mental health, i would honestly just give up trying to find employment and just live a life on benefits, because i'd rather not deal with this ****. but in reality, i have no choice, because life in the UK is not worth living unless you're planning to leave.

and no, i don't have anyone in person that can provide support or referrals to jobs or to help me parse these job listings. i'm looking for fully remote jobs that arent call centre work (aka daily abuse by customers from the Comfort of your own home) so the DWP cant help me. moreover, the only support i've found for remote work specific communities are online only.

thanks

Jimm_Scope

Hey @Stellar, I really understand how difficult this can be. I've had issues in the past holding down jobs. Had issues applying for jobs too, I absolutely despise the job seeking process! I am similar in that I can usually handle the interviews but the application process is soul destroying to me.

Can I ask if you've tried reaching out to our employment services at all? There are a few different kinds, some of which can be in-person support or online/over the phone.

We do also have an advice section on finding work here: Finding a job when you’re disabled | Disability charity Scope UK

It covers the employment support Scope offers, but also has plenty of advice and links to other support and information.