Finding work in the apolcalypse

[Blake_Arius]

I've been suffering social anxiety a while now. Due in part to the lack of work I've had over the last 2 years... it's been a terrible run. I work as a graphic designer but my work history in print and disc media is practically dead in the face of mobile and UI.
It got bad so I got help and counseling.. built myself back up, started networking and finding a few small freelance projects.. and then the pandemic hit.

It's like everything I've been trying to break away from is suddenly the procedure for dealing with this virus. I've felt isolated for at least 2 years and now I'm supposed to social isolate for the next 6 months. It's really messing with me in that I just don't know how to move forward anymore. I feel like I'm a constant war between wanting to break out of this shell while also being to paranoid to leave it. If anyone has any suggestions on what to do I'm all ears.

[Rumples]

Hi Blake Arius,

Welcome to the forum and thank you so much for reaching out to us. We're all here to listen and help you though this trying time.

Graphic designers are such talented people and I've always been in awe of people like you. So, well done to you.

Yes, finding work in this current environment is particularly difficult. Have you applied for social benefits Blake? They also offer re-training schemes at no cost. I know it's deviating away from your chosen profession, however, some paying work in another industry is better than none in yours. It's sort of like the person we all know who has a trade, yet doesn't work in that industry. Electricians and Cabinet makers are prime examples. I know so many sparkies who are now off the tools and doing other jobs. Something to consider?

Do you have people you can talk to? Family, friends etc?

Come back to me with your thoughts.

Your friend - Rumples :0)

[Sophie_M]

Hi Blake,

Thank you for reaching out to us here today. We trust you'll find the community here very welcoming and supportive.

Please know there is always help available to you. We're sorry to hear of you're struggling right now. Given the extraordinary times we find ourselves in and how they relate to your journey, we recommend you check out our Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service here: https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/

Please keep checking in with us here and let us know how you're doing whenever you feel up to it.

[Blake_Arius]

Thanks for the reply. I considered training but the government courses are useless and many other offerings like tafe are postponed atm, there is also an underlying fear of adding to my $60k+ student debt... I agree doing some kind of upskill training would be massively beneficial so I will endeavour to find some kind of online course.
I'm currently on social benefits but coming from a mindset of 'good work ethic' the guilt of being a 'doll bludger' for such a length of time really ads to the self doubt.

I am not completely alone, which is lifesaving at this point in time. Community and kindness will hopefully stop the world falling apart. or my world at the very least. Thanks for you reply, It helps to just know someone else can understand.

[Mattie88]

Hi Blake,

I really respond and relate to what you're feeling at the moment mate.

I'm a graphic designer too and I've felt those same feelings about always constantly needing to add technical skills to your toolkit. And the isolation of working freelance can be really tough to deal with at times.

There's still a great need for those traditional skills you have. Your skills in print can definitely be applied digitally too.

Don't blame yourself for the situation you're in. I think this pandemic situation has helped many people realise that being unemployed is often out of the control of an individual. That said, there are a few things you can do in this time to build up your confidence/morale for when things get better.

Perhaps you can use this time to team up with a friend and work on a passion project that shows off your skills.

If upskilling is something you are keen to do, there are a few good free YouTube channels that can help you. The Futur and AJ&Smart (more UI/UX focused) are great to have a look at.

I know it's so hard dealing with these feelings of uncertainty but try and focus on going through the motions of creating work and hopefuly that will give you some sense of flow and positivity.

I hope things get better for you soon mate.

All the best.