Hi GTS - ooohhh, I feel for you. Yes, your job really can cause mental health problems. Yes indeed.
Steve - excellent response! I think I've worked with all those despicable, bureaucratic control freaks you mention. They're in the public service (especially HR departments).
GTS I have recently left my job, not by choice, and at the time it seemed like the end of the world. How would I survive, what would I do. I was angrier than angry and hurt like hell.
However, a few months later, I have realised that while the circumstances of leaving were not pleasant, leaving was the best thing that could happen to me. I am so much better mentally than I was. My husband has really noticed the difference (I'm not coming home at night in tears!). And, while in many ways it would be better if there was money coming in (though I was fortunate to get a redundancy package), to be honest, money couldn't buy the opportunity I have now to heal and get well.
I am looking for work, but I've decided on a career change into a much lower-paid but satisfying field. Is that something you could think about? Perhaps pursue a passion?
What we experience when we're stuck in a job we can't connect with or believe in, or we actively dislike, is a form of cognitive dissonance. Google that and see if you relate to it. And it can make us ill (sure did me).
Changing jobs might not ease the anxiety initially, because there's always the risk it won't work out well, plus it takes time to settle in. But if it's the right job for you the anxiety should ease over time as you get to know people and, hopefully, enjoy what you're doing. That enjoyment is key though, so have a good hard think about what it is you want to do and I really hope you can find something satisfying.
Very best wishes to you
Kaz
