Searching for a job in the UK is often more than just a professional pursuit — it is a deeply personal challenge that can significantly affect mental health. Amidst a competitive job market and ongoing economic uncertainties, many candidates experience intense psychological pressure throughout their job search journey.
Recent studies indicate that over 60% of job seekers in the UK report heightened anxiety and stress during their search. For those in the technology sector, where competition is fierce and roles are highly specialized, the mental toll can be even greater — with data showing a 30% higher likelihood of depression among tech job seekers facing prolonged unemployment.
The Mental Health Challenges of Job Searching
Anxiety, Stress, and Depression:
The uncertainty of when and where the next opportunity will arise, combined with the fear of rejection and financial pressures, can quickly erode mental health. Many job seekers find themselves caught in cycles of stress that impact their focus, motivation, and well-being.
Loss of Confidence:
Repeated rejections or a lack of response from employers can chip away at an individual’s self-esteem. Over time, candidates may internalize these setbacks, leading to self-doubt and reduced confidence, which in turn makes it harder to succeed in interviews or networking opportunities.
Isolation and Loneliness:
Job hunting can be a lonely process. Without a robust support system, many candidates report feeling isolated in their struggles, which can amplify stress and discourage them from continuing their search effectively.
Recognizing the link between job seeking and mental health, Ascendia, a newly launched platform co-founded by Omon Eni, is designed to offer comprehensive support for those navigating the UK tech job market. Ascendia’s mission goes beyond helping candidates land jobs — it is committed to preserving and strengthening their mental well-being throughout the process.
In a conversation with Omon Eni, she emphasized that Ascendia was built to address the “unspoken” psychological weight of job hunting. Here are some of the ways Ascendia is transforming the job search experience:
Building a Supportive Community
Ascendia fosters a safe and inclusive space where job seekers can connect, share experiences, and support one another. Through community forums, group coaching, and networking events, candidates gain access to peers who understand their journey — helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and offering much-needed encouragement.
Offering Stress-Reduction Tools and Professional Support
To tackle the emotional challenges of job hunting, Ascendia provides an array of mental health and stress-management resources. These include mindfulness exercises, guided relaxation sessions, and practical time management tools to help candidates stay organized and calm. Furthermore, Ascendia connects users with licensed mental health professionals for personalized guidance when needed.
Restoring Confidence and Career Readiness
Ascendia places strong emphasis on rebuilding confidence through tailored feedback and skills development. The platform offers personalized reviews of CVs, cover letters, and interview techniques, as well as mock interviews and skills workshops to ensure candidates present themselves effectively. Through consistent positive reinforcement and resilience training, job seekers are empowered to approach their search with renewed self-belief.
More than just a temporary solution, Ascendia aims to redefine how job seeking is approached in the UK, particularly within the tech sector. As Omon Eni noted, the goal is to ensure that finding a job does not come at the expense of one’s mental health. Instead, Ascendia envisions a future where job seekers feel empowered, supported, and mentally strong throughout their career journey.
By focusing on mental wellness alongside career development, Ascendia is reshaping the landscape of job hunting — turning what has often been a stressful and isolating experience into one that builds resilience, confidence, and community.
