Help with CV please....

PazDeLaHuertaFan

I left work due to depression in 2007 and since January of this year I have been working two jobs(17 hours combined)and now I am looking for full time work.

The problem is the massive gap in my CV for between 2007 and 2011. My question is what should I write on my CV, should I write about the depression or leave it out?

I know it's tough for everyone to find work at the moment but I feel like I'm at an disadvantage due to my issues with depression. Has anyone any advice?

Thank you.

dizzyrascal

Hi
In General, (for a CV) the advice is to always tell them about your problem as soon as possible and to turn it into a positive.
It is important not to have any unexplained gaps on a CV because it will start to raise questions for the recruiter. You don't want people to start guessing where the missing years have gone.

This means that where you have a gap in your education/employment history you will need to address it in your cover letter by saying how it has not held you back, rather, that you have gained further skills by dealing with your problem. A positive example would be about how you have coped with additional pressure, despite your disability. (this is just an example)
There is further help here

Summerstage

Firstly, glad you are feeling stronger, managing two jobs and looking to go full-time.

A CV is a marketing document and as such should focus on your skills, experience and why you would fit the role you are applying for.

I would strongly disagree with adding your depression on a CV or cover letter, rightly or wrongly, most likely to not be invited to interview.

Obviously you would not lie on a CV, but I guess it could be considered a career break, or perhaps at the same time you have been caring for someone, travelling etc.

Recruiters don't always want to (as they see it) take a risk, even if they understand or have even experienced depression, if they get their recruitment wrong..it reflects badly on them.

I would say submit a really strong CV and then consider how you could positvely explain your past health issues at interview stage.

Good luck x

dizzyrascal

Unfortunately if you leave it to the interview stage to explain your 4 year absence from work you may have already lost the trust of the employer.
Although the gap itself will probably exclude you from getting that far.
After all, you could have been in prison for murder!
Start by applying to organisations who use the 2-ticks standard and see how you get on.

Emmzi

just put "career break". They will assume you were caring for someone. Explaining face to face is easier.

PazDeLaHuertaFan

Thanks for all your help guys!