Anxiety is taking over

[Bell 81]

I'm a bit lost at the moment. I suffer from anxiety and depression from my previous job. I thought changing jobs would help but my current job is no better. My manager is not supportive and boarder line bullies me. This has lead to my mental health spiraling down. My parents are wanting me to quit my job and I do have some savings but I am concerned that I will never find another job again or it will look back on my resume. I'm at a lost as to what to do.

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

Due to mania and bipolar etc I've had approx 90 jobs ad 15 professions. Although I had many references from bosses there were many bosses that I clashed with for whatever reason. So I removed that job from my resume and told a white lie, that I was overseas or on an extended holiday. The way the world operates dont feel guilty because it might not be your fault your bosses are targetting you.

Many years ago I acknowledged that I was reactive around people so I decided to seek out a profession that allowed me to work alone, that wasnt easy but eventually I returned to an old profession is investigations running my own business. There are some others like contract cleaner working late at night or truck driver etc. Sure you are still communicating with others but usually on the phone. So this might need lots of thought.

As you have savings I would not risk your mental state any further and applaud your parents for caring for you. As a last effort I'd ask for a meting with your current boss and explain you have your health issues and would like to know how you can improve so he/she has not work issues with you. He might just realise they have been irrational or too firm. If that doesnt go well you can make your decision then.

I hope I've helped. Repost anytime

TonyWK

[Fern42]

Hi Bell81, I think if it feels like it is an unhealthy workplace it's certainly not worth staying in fear of not finding another job or looking bad on your resume. When you already have already suffered anxiety and depression from your previous work place it is certainly important to find a work place that nurtures and is supportive of you. Nothing is worth your mental health, no job, no person or no place.

[blues23]

I know the feeling , I’m returning to work soon from workplace bullying and it’s quite a lot I’m much like u why am I returning?  Do what’s best 4 u if it’s leaving do it . Unfortunately for me it’s more financially viable for me to stay put for the moment until a better offer comes along ( if u have evidence of workplace bullying go to work safe lodge a report they can help u  although it is a hard road ) 

[Tammy_]

Hello there, sorry to hear that you are feeling a bit lost right now. I too suffer from anxiety and at times depression. I was in a workplace that had bullying and I contacted EAP for counselling - Employee Assistance Programs which was offered through the workplace. Basically, my options were: 

1. Leave the situaion

2. Stay and change what can be changed - E.g. Talk to HR or speak to Manager) or change my reaction to it. 

3. Stay and accept what can't be changed

4. Stay and rely on (unhelpful) emotional control strategies 

I ended up leaving the situation and getting help dealing with anxiety and depression from a professional. It sounds like you have supportive parents and it's great you have safety net of savings. I don't think it will look bad on your resume if you took a break from work. Some people take long breaks to do travel or study. Maybe you could contact a career counsellor out there who also help with anxiety and depression? I hope you feel better soon. 

[Bell 81]

1. Thank you all for your replies. It's great to know White Knight that you can leave jobs without it being the end of the world. It is nice to have input from people who know what you are going through. I ended up quitting my job, last day today. The relief was immense  to know that I would be leaving although the anxiety and fear of never getting another job has been difficult to deal with. I am looking forward to having a break and focusing on my mental health before jumping back into looking for employment and finding a nice workplace.