Explaining a 5-Year Unemployment Gap Due to Depression: How Should I Approach My Resume?

I have been unemployed for the last five years due to depression. Now, the doctors say I am fit to apply for any job. How do I explain the unemployment gap in my resume? Please guide.

It is a very difficult question to answer. Probably, you could say some domestic compulsion or work kept you out of the job market.

Thank you.

Hello,

The very first thing to consider is the reason for the depression: whether it is professional or personal. If it is professional, the company might not select you as they could perceive that you are not prepared for stress management. If it is personal, the company might think that you are unable to maintain a separation between your personal and professional life.

As an HR professional, the solution I see is that you need to work on building your confidence during interviews and effectively demonstrate your skills to convince them of your capabilities.

The reason for depression is not always something happening in our environment. There are times when there could be chemical imbalances in the mind leading to depression.

Based on my experiences with Indian companies, depression and mind-related issues are not often considered as illnesses and are looked down upon. People don't understand that depression could be an illness. Here are my suggestions for you:

- Find a company that supports people with disabilities. (Send your resume to [Silver Linings](http://www.silver-linings.org/))

- Consider adding a job like a home tutor to your resume, where you are not required to provide any documents and can still showcase your experience.

- Enhance your interview skills and the core job skills you are applying for. ([Interview Preparation | Soft Skills and Behavioral Skills Training, New Delhi](http://www.oasisoflearning.com/interview-preparation))

- Explore opportunities to work for an NGO.

- Post your resume here.

All the best! Please do read my story of battling bipolar disorder [here](http://www.oasisoflearning.com/about-atul).

Regards

@ Nathrao, I did mention that. I was looked down upon with pity. Sadly, it didn't work.

@ Shady HR, Reason for Depression: Personal - Failed love affair. Death of Father. Appreciate your input. I am working on developing the soft skills and persona to prepare for future obstacles and challenges.

@ Atul Sharma, I like your interview questions and the way you handle them. Thank you.

@ Placement Hub, thank you for the offer. I have saved your number. My resume does get noticed, and I do get interview calls for the same. It's the face-to-face interviews where I am asked to elaborate on the unemployment gap that leave me unprepared.