Tired, Not Lazy: How Job Hunting Affects Our Mental Health
Due to the current state of the Philippines, job hunting continues to become longer, harder, and more uncertain. Back then, we’d interpret, “Apply ka lang ng apply!” as a chant of encouragement. But with what’s been happening, it feels out of touch to say. For many, the struggle to find work isn’t about a lack of effort. There’s the exhaustion, frustration, and a labor market that feels stacked against them.
Bearing the Brunt of Constant Rejection
In today’s society, job hunting looks like a marathon with no finish line. Applicants spend hours fine-tuning resumes or CVs, preparing for interviews, and answering lengthy skills tests…only to wait weeks for a reply that may never come. When it does, it’s either the “Yes” they’ve prayed for or the “We regret to inform you” email that shakes their confidence.
Some job seekers say that even checking their inbox has become a source of stress, knowing another rejection might be waiting for them.
When Hard Work Isn’t Enough
Let’s face it: despite doing everything right, many Filipinos still struggle to secure opportunities. Entry-level roles now demand years of experience, while job openings continue to shrink. Not only that, salaries often fail to match the required qualifications. So fresh graduates feel discouraged and inadequately prepared.
There’s also a guilt that follows job seekers. The echo of “Am I doing something wrong?” weighs heavily on them, which is a valid feeling to have. Because let’s be clear: failure isn’t the issue; it’s the system that’s broken.
“Toxic Resiliency” and “Hustle Culture”
Because everything’s digital now, social media adds another layer of pressure to job hunting. One scroll and suddenly there are motivational posts urging people to “keep hustling” or that “the grind never stops.” But while these messages seem inspiring, they can unintentionally dismiss the emotional reality job seekers face.
They reinforce what many refer to as “toxic resiliency,” or the expectation to stay positive and productive even when overwhelmed. This also ties into “hustle culture,” which glorifies nonstop work, constant achievement, and the idea that “rest = weakness.”
READ: College Graduation, Do You Need to Find a Job Right Away?
Struggling when job hunting doesn’t make someone lazy or unmotivated. They’re just navigating a saturated job market, coupled with rejection and pressure from social media. That’s why we need to be more empathetic and supportive towards job seekers. Because sometimes, the bravest thing they can do is to keep going.
