A new study has found surprising connections between mental health traits and career choices. Conducted by researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the study analyzed data from over 400,000 professionals in the U.S. and the U.K. and revealed that traits linked to conditions like ADHD, autism, depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety can subtly influence occupational paths.
The researchers studied 20 different professions and found unique patterns. Artists and designers were most likely to show traits linked to bipolar disorder, autism, and depression. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professionals often had traits associated with autism, while schizophrenia traits were more common among social workers. Teachers showed a link with traits related to anorexia.
However, not all careers showed strong connections. Jobs in healthcare, farming, business, and engineering were among those with the least association to mental health conditions, suggesting more stability in these professions.
The study highlighted that people with ADHD traits often land in careers requiring less formal education, which may reflect biases in the education system rather than individual capabilities.
Lead researcher Georgios Voloudakis said the study aims to reduce the stigma around mental health by showing both the challenges and potential strengths linked to these traits. However, the researchers emphasized that genetics alone cannot determine a career path, as environmental and personal factors play a larger role.
This groundbreaking research reminds us that understanding mental health traits can lead to a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all.
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