The world has progressed tremendously in the last decades. More wealth has been generated, our lives have become more manageable, and quality of life has improved compared to previous generations. Technology, medical science, engineering, retail, and fashion have transformed our lives through automation, convenience, and innovation. On the surface, the world and its habitats enjoy a better experience.
However, on the other hand, human suffering has also taken a shift. The growth-driven and fast-paced lifestyle posed its own set of repercussions and adverse effects. Today, people are suffering lesser from influenza or any physical disease but depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Mental health issues have pushed humankind towards a different kind of challenges. According to WHO, one in every four in the world will be affected by mental disorders. Already, 450 million people are suffering from such issues.
Thus, psychologists are saviors in this matter. There are many apparent and complex causes of this diminishing mental health issue that trained psychologists can understand and treat better. Psychology studies human behavior and mental processes. With their professional training and understanding, they help people comprehend their mindset, support them in their decision making, and stress management. They help people to lead better in their careers, relationships, and overall life in general. Because of it, the psychology field has emerged as one of the most in-demand professions in the world right now, and it offers many fruitful prospects for psychologists. Some of them are:
- Variety of Specialization Options:
As discussed, the psychology is growing and evolving. Almost every industry, whether academia or corporate, all are seeking support and help from the psychologists in their work. Therefore, the psychology field is also advancing and offers specialized studies in specific domains. There is an abundance of majors options like online forensic psychology degree, sports psychology, etc. that are available for advanced studies.
- High Earning Potential:
Money alone cannot be enough motivation or provide satisfaction, but it is undoubtedly an influential factor for any individual. Psychologists generally earn a considerable pay scale, and it varies from industry to industry and specialization of the professional. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of a clinical psychologist is $70,580. Usually, psychologists from forensic, developmental, and social sector earn nearly six-figure salaries. Another critical aspect of wages is the employer. Psychologists who work with academia or hospitals earn lesser than the ones who work under the employment of the government sector or corporate.
- Helping People and Making a Difference:
One advantage of working as a psychologist is that it provides immense opportunities to make a difference in others’ lives. Many Psychologists opt for clinical or counseling psychology for this very reason to help people. They bring value and positive change to people who struggle with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, substance abuse issues, life changes, relationship matters, etc.
Some professionals get involved in these respective fields because of their personal experiences of coping with mental health issues. Despite some of the stress this work brings, people still opt to work to help and change people’s lives to bring solace to their souls.
- Being Your Boss:
A lot of us always dream of being our boss, making the rules, and calling the shots. Well, professionals of the psychology field have numerous opportunities to work as an entrepreneur. Almost one-third of the psychologists are self-employed. They can establish their therapy practice if they are related to counseling or clinical practices. Similarly, educational psychologists, forensic psychologists, and industrial psychology professionals can also offer their services to clients as private consultants.
In addition to entrepreneurial opportunities, psychologists also enjoy flexible schedules, and they can set their hours. In this way, they can have a promising career and ample time for their family, friends, and hobbies. However, such freedom is only available to private practitioners.
- New Challenges Every day:
Psychology deals with the human mind, and the human brain is a complex phenomenon. Therefore, a psychologist faces diversity and challenges in every assignment. No matter which psychology field you pursue, you will not get bored quickly. Clinical psychologist deals with different traumas with human body conditions and to solve the problems. Similarly, sports psychologists are taken on board to enhance sports performances or help athletes cope with performance pressures. The job of psychologists can be stressful and draining, but it is an exciting job for those who like intellectual challenges.
Conclusion:
With every passing day, human life is affected by a fast-paced, innovative world with a plethora of things to look around. It has created a need to keep their minds in check and care about their mental health. Psychologists are the need of the hour; therefore, this profession is getting importance and attention. However, despite many extrinsic rewards it offers, the real value of being a psychologist is to help people and turn their lives around.
