Best Jobs for Chronic Illness

Living with a chronic illness presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to employment. However, the digital era has opened up a plethora of opportunities that are well-suited to individuals with chronic conditions. These jobs offer the flexibility, low physical intensity, and the ability to work from a comfortable environment, which are essential factors for anyone managing a chronic illness. Here are some of the best jobs for people with chronic illness, along with their descriptions, responsibilities, and required education where applicable.

Editorial Roles

• Average Salary: Varies widely depending on experience, industry, and whether you’re freelance or employed.
• Job Description: Content writers produce engaging and informative content for websites, blogs, and social media platforms.
• Responsibilities: Writing articles, blog posts, and other forms of web content, conducting research, and ensuring the content is SEO-friendly.
• Required Education: While formal education in English, Journalism, or related fields is beneficial, a strong portfolio can also suffice.

Digital Creative Fields

• Average Salary: Varies by location, experience, and whether you work freelance or for a company.
• Job Description: Graphic designers create visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers.
• Responsibilities: Designing web pages, brochures, logos, signs, books, magazine covers, annual reports, advertisements, and other communication materials.
• Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field is often required, along with a professional portfolio.

Education and Coaching

• Average Salary: Earnings can vary greatly depending on the subjects taught and the number of hours worked.
• Job Description: Online tutors provide educational support and instruction to students over the internet.
• Responsibilities: Preparing lesson plans, teaching, assigning and grading homework, and providing feedback to students.
• Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in the relevant subject area is typically required, along with any necessary teaching certifications.

Tech Industry

• Average Salary: Salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and the specific technologies used.
• Job Description: Web developers design and create websites, ensuring their functionality and appearance.
• Responsibilities: Writing code, integrating graphics, audio, and video, and ensuring websites are optimized for performance and accessibility.
• Required Education: An associate’s degree in web design or a related field is common, but knowledge and experience with specific programming languages and tools can also be key.

Finance and Administration

• Average Salary: Varies by location, level of experience, and whether you work in public accounting, in-house for a company, or freelance.
• Job Description: Accountants prepare and examine financial records, ensuring their accuracy and that taxes are paid properly and on time.
• Responsibilities: Preparing and examining financial records, computing taxes owed, preparing tax returns, and ensuring that financial statements are accurate.
• Required Education: A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is typically required. Certification, such as a CPA, may also be needed for certain positions.

Consulting and Customer Support

• Average Salary: Typically varies depending on the industry and level of experience.
• Job Description: Customer service representatives help customers with complaints and questions, give customers information about products and services, take orders, and process returns.
• Responsibilities: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries, generating sales leads, and building sustainable relationships with customer accounts.
• Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require further education or training specific to the industry.

Final Thoughts

For individuals managing chronic illnesses, finding a job that accommodates their health needs is crucial for maintaining both productivity and well-being. The jobs listed above are just a starting point. Many other opportunities can provide the flexibility, comfort, and engagement needed. With the advancements in remote work and digital platforms, the possibilities are expanding. It’s important to find a role that not only fits your skills and interests but also your health requirements.

Sources

• The Discerning You: https://thediscerningyou.com/the-best-jobs-for-people-with-a-chronic-illness/
• Pain Resource: https://painresource.com/chronic-pain/best-jobs-for-people-with-chronic-pain/
• The Balance Work: https://www.thebalancework.com/best-jobs-for-people-with-chronic-fatigue/

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

See author's posts