Will My Depression Stop Me from Working with Children?

The Department for Education (DfE) does have access to your Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)check and will weigh the information that it reveals in assessing your suitability for working with children. In itself, having been diagnosed with depression should not exclude you from securing a job working with children, especially considering that you are receiving treatment. Being upfront with prospective employers is wise, and pointing out that you are in a far healthier state of mind now should help to portray you in the best possible light. In an interview situation, it’s important to address any areas of possible concern in as honest a manner as possible, but you do not want to dwell on them. Acknowledge the situation, point out that you recognised the problem and have taken (and continue to take) steps to address it, and then redirect the conversation to focus on your strengths and the benefits that you can bring to the centre.

Children deserve to be surrounded by adults who feel passionately, as you do, that this type of work is important and rewarding, so be sure to express your enthusiasm for guiding children as you interview for a position. If you have not yet secured your Early Years Teacher Status, it is important that you seek it. Early Years Teacher Status replaced the previous EYPS qualification system. In addition to the EYPS, it can be a boon to your career growth to enrol in classes related to the care and welfare of young children; all employers respect candidates who take active roles in making themselves as qualified and capable as possible.

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Finally, be sure to take care of yourself and continue following your doctor’s instructions regarding medication, therapy, and lifestyle choices. Research indicates that a number of factors, including sleep, exercise, controlling stress, and even diet can impact feelings of depression, so do all that you can to make choices that benefit your overall health. Working with children can be a rewarding career, but it does come with its own share of stress. By taking steps to keep yourself healthy, you will better be able to handle the stresses associated with your chosen profession. Remember, in order to take care of others, you must first take care of yourself.

Best of luck as you proceed with your life and career – we hope that you find your work to be immensely enriching and rewarding!

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The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Childcare Career Finder lets you tell us what draws you to working with children and we will match you with the UK careers or volunteering roles that fit you best. Try it now →