A rise in anxiety and depression linked to job searching is being described by a new term: Doomjobbing. Research points to a connection between prolonged online job applications and declining mental health in an uncertain employment market.
The term refers to the habit of endlessly searching and applying for jobs online, often with diminishing returns in confidence, motivation and well-being. Similar to doomscrolling, it reflects a repetitive and often unproductive cycle.
Jo Ellen Grzyb, psychotherapist, careers expert and co founder of professional skills training company Impact Factory, says the behaviour can quickly become emotionally draining. Repeatedly scanning job listings creates brief moments of optimism followed by disappointment and self doubt, forming a loop that is difficult to break.
“The idea of ‘Doomjobbing’ has the same neurological impact as swiping on a dating app: people get a dopamine hit, they get disappointed, they crave fulfillment, and the cycle begins again. This behaviour can become addictive very quickly because it’s operating alongside the emotional impact of having been made redundant in the first place.”
Grzyb adds that prolonged job searching without results can intensify insecurity. “In addition, the longer someone goes without at least a job interview, let alone a new job, all their insecurities and self doubts get amplified. There’s damage to someone’s sense of self and their dignity. They start looking for the perfect job and then all the reasons why they aren’t qualified. People can stop seeing possibilities and only focus on the negatives.”
She also notes that constant exposure to online platforms can worsen feelings of inadequacy. “In terms of a modern layoff culture, our access to the internet and sites like LinkedIn make everything seem far more immediate and therefore can instill feelings of inadequacy, shame and guilt, without any ‘corroborating’ evidence: ‘I’m useless.’ ‘Of course I got laid off, who’d have me?’ The economy is so volatile, and AI is becoming more prevalent, companies are making job cuts all the time and it seems the norm.”
Although the behaviour may appear proactive, it is often passive in effect. “Although it looks as though they are being active in their job search, the addictive behaviour is quite passive and it’s likely that pessimism will take over and depression set in. To feel better about the depression, they seek out the dopamine hit and on it goes.”
Studies show prolonged job hunting harms mental health. One survey found that 72% of job seekers report negative effects, with younger people particularly affected. Unemployment is associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression and stress, which can worsen over time.
The effects can extend to families. “Children experience outright terror, anxiety, depression, frustration and anger. The same feelings their parents are going through. Every child needs to know their parents are OK; they need to feel safe. When they don’t, their world becomes a scary place to be and can even be a dangerous place if a parent expresses their own frustration by acting out. Some children become hyper responsible and feel it’s their job to keep the family together and ‘happy’.”
Grzyb shares an example: “One child I know, whose father had been out of work for nine months, said to him, ‘Why don’t you just get a job, any job?’ She had a really good point. Holding out for the perfect job narrows choices and feeds the victim. Getting any job means people are doing something pro active and gets them moving, even for a short time.”
Research also indicates that parental unemployment can affect children’s well-being, with potential long term psychological consequences.
The UK job market has shown signs of weakness, with hiring demand remaining cautious amid economic volatility. Vacancies have declined, while unemployment reached around 5% in late 2025.
The growing use of artificial intelligence is contributing to job changes. British companies report net job losses linked to the technology at a higher rate than some other major economies. While AI is expected to create new opportunities, the transition is increasing uncertainty for job seekers.
Experts suggest several practical steps to reduce the impact of doomjobbing and maintain momentum. Signing up with recruitment agencies can help job seekers access roles more efficiently while also improving their CVs. Reaching out directly to companies after researching their needs may demonstrate initiative and lead to interview opportunities. Letting others know about a job search can also expand opportunities through personal networks, as people are often willing to help make connections.
Grzyb advises setting limits on online searching. “As for ‘doomjobbing’, notice if it’s controlling you or you’re controlling it. If it’s the former, tuck that screen away after 20 minutes and give your brain a break.”
Networking, proactive outreach and reducing passive scrolling are seen as key to protecting well-being during the job search.