In this article, we will look at the 10 most stressful jobs in the US. We have also discussed the impact of stress on the burnout levels of employees in the US in another article. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 30 Most Stressful Jobs in the US.
10. Hedge Fund Managers
Stress Level: 50
Hedge fund managers face high stress due to managing billions of dollars in investments and facing constant market fluctuations. Their job involves huge financial responsibility, risk management, and the pressure to deliver returns to demanding clients, leading to continuous stress. It is also one of the most overpaid jobs in the world.
9. Stock Trader
Stress Level: 51
Stock traders experience high stress as they make split-second decisions in volatile markets. The fear of financial loss, competition, and needing to stay updated with global events adds to their stress. Market crashes and economic uncertainties can be mentally taxing.
8. Criminal Lawyer
Stress Level: 52
Criminal lawyers deal with high-stress cases, as they handle serious crimes, often with a life-altering impact. Long hours, emotional strain, and the responsibility to defend clients under intense scrutiny contribute to their stress levels. It is one of the top 10 most stressful jobs in America.
7. Anesthesiologist
Stress Level: 53
Anesthesiologists manage patients’ lives during surgeries. Their role carries immense responsibility, as a single mistake could be fatal. Naturally, handling emergencies and long hours in the operating room cause high stress. It is also one of the highest paid medical specialties in the world.
6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Stress Level: 54
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons perform complex surgeries on the face and mouth. The pressure arises from intricate procedures, potential complications, and responsibility for patients’ appearance and functionality, resulting in stress. It is one of the most stressful jobs in the US.
5. Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Stress Level: 56
Obstetricians and Gynecologists deal with patients’ reproductive health, including high-risk pregnancies. The unpredictability of childbirth, emotional challenges, and maternal care can lead to significant stress. It is also among the best medical specialties for female doctors and moms.
4. Underwater Welder
Stress Level: 57
Underwater welders face extreme conditions underwater, including darkness, high pressure, and physical danger. The need for precision in welding and the possibility of underwater mishaps make this job incredibly stressful. It is also one of the most dangerous jobs in the world.
3. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician
Stress Level: 58
Explosive ordnance disposal technicians handle explosive devices, including bombs. Their work involves life-or-death situations requiring constant focus and courage.
2. Mental Health Counsellor
Stress Level: 59
Mental Health Counselors experience high stress from emotional and empathetic engagement with clients’ problems. The weight of others’ emotional burdens, ethical dilemmas, and the demand for effective solutions.
1. Nuclear Reactor Operator
Stress Level: 60
They manage nuclear facilities with the potential for catastrophic accidents. Their work necessitates precise control, safety measures, and the constant fear of nuclear disasters, leading to immense stress. It is the most stressful job in the US.
Insider Monkey focuses on uncovering the best investment ideas of hedge funds and insiders. Please subscribe to our free daily enewsletter to get the latest investment ideas from hedge funds’ investor letters by entering your email address below. You can also take a peek at 30 Dying Professions to Avoid Like a Plague and 30 Best Paying Jobs With High School Degrees