Coping with leftover anger from previous job

79 Comments

1. AnonymousOctober 13,2025 at 5:32PM UTC

   I'm sorry you went through such a traumatic experience. I went through something similar. What I can say is.....to pray about it and possibly seek counseling from a professional. Holding on to resentment and anger doesn't help us for the future. I would look at this as.... it's in the past, God got you through it and now you have moved on to something better. The good thing is.... you never have to deal with those people again. Try to focus on what you are grateful for now and maybe start a gratitude journal.

2. Changemaker828603October 13,2025 at 8:18PM UTC

   It is hard. I was thinking about how much of my personal life, health, I let slide because I was so wrapped up in keeping a toxic job just for the pay and benefits.

   I am now trying to catch up. And letting go of the anger and frustration. I left the job 5 years ago, and still get angry about it. But, I "push it away", mentally. And focus on something else. The past won't change. Just realize, you are not alone.

3. AnonymousOctober 13,2025 at 9:47PM UTC

   Perhaps writing out your experience! Write all the things you didn't get to say, let it out. Then burn the letter (or dispose of it to your liking) -- yup. See it as a release ceremony.

   I also agree with the person below suggestion about speaking to someone to talk through how you feel. You shouldn't have to suppress those feelings --- let them out so your healing can truly begin. Good luck to you!

4. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 1:20AM UTC

   In addition to what others have mentioned (writing things down to release it, therapy, etc.), perhaps a rage room? It could be used in combination with the other things, but sometimes the physical activity of breaking things and being able to feel your feelings fully can be a good way to release that anger. Plus, exercise is fantastic for stress relief.

5. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 1:51AM UTC

   You resentment is eating you up. Therapy can help you identify what is keeping you holding on. There are ways to address your trauma with never having to actually vent your anger to anyone connected with your old job.

6. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 5:45AM UTC

   I am brutally honest on my reviews (not naming names of course) on Glassdoor. Also, remember that success is the best revenge. I understand; my last job was highly toxic and I moved into a green light job with green light bosses. I had PTSD so bad that my boss noticed. My probationary review was a complete 180 from my previous position, so that was justification in my book.

7. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 9:38AM UTC

   If you need to write a nasty letter explaining all the awful things they did, write it on paper only (no nasty email because the Internet is forever), then burn it or shred it, and remember that the reason the windshield is so much bigger than the rear view mirror is because where you're going is far more important than where you've been. Practice gratitude that you are now in a much better job situation and focus on being wildly successful. Be sure to spend time doing things you enjoy, so you will look your absolute best and happiest if you happen to run into your old boss around town somewhere. Also remember that sooner or later, karma does its thing; you will be happy and successful, while the toxic people will wish they had been kinder to you.

8. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 12:28PM UTC

   I’m sorry that you went through this. Time will heal this wound, others have made great suggestions how you can proactively be part of the healing process. Be it prayer, counseling or some other method.

9. Maggie TeliskaOctober 14,2025 at 12:30PM UTC

   I went through this about 5 years ago. Looking back, it was the best thing at the time (super toxic too), but like you, I was really mad. The best way to explain it was that it felt like a really bad breakup! Feelings lingered, and I even have some today.

   It took time for the initial sting. A year later that toxic boss was finally fired. 5 years later, they had the gall (is that the right word?) to ask for my help with a new business they were trying to get. I thought - do I help? Do I want to burn a bridge here? But then I realized they burned that bridge years ago, not me. So I ignored the calls.

   Take it easy. Know it takes time. Luckily, it wasn't your path. Your path is different and better!

10. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 12:32PM UTC

    I agree therapy will help. I had a similar experience and it helped me deal with the anger. But if the company is that toxic, I would leave a review on Glassdoor. Don’t list your former title or department. And give an honest review that’s phrased with care.

11. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 12:36PM UTC

    I would call them out on Glassdoor. You can also send them individual emails expressing your grievances. Now, don't expect a response or an apology.

12. Aurora POctober 14,2025 at 12:40PM UTC

    I had one of those!! I am so sorry you went through that but happy you've gotten out of there. The PTSD is real. It's hard to not let it wash into the new job. It took a good year I think to really start to settle into my new job. I don't think I've let all the anger go from the old one. They absolutely used me (and others!) and even as of now, it's still really bad there. I do however look at it as a lesson for me and that I should've gotten out of there much sooner. It well passed my boundaries and I will not let that happen again. I understand what you are going through and it will take time for the intense anger to start fading. I feel like after about 3 months at my new job, when I was able to really look at everything that was going on at the bad job, my anger got so much worse. It peaked for a bit and then I was able to let some of it go. I still get angry if I sit and think about it.

13. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 12:52PM UTC

    Talk to a therapist. That’s what they are there for.

    Or write a letter (but don’t mail it) or journal.

    be grateful you found something fast.

    many people in your situation have not.

14. GirlBossanova934974October 14,2025 at 12:55PM UTC

    This is what Glassdoor is for. Thousands of former employees do this everyday. They leave all sorts of horror stories concerning specific companies so other people see it and decide right away they will not apply. These bad actors and actresses always think their bad management is never going to catch up with them. They are so wrong.

15. Lori CasoOctober 14,2025 at 1:08PM UTC

    Work injustices are painful. Write out your feelings in a letter and then put it in a drawer.

    You are in a better place - move forward. What’s that old saying “ that’s why your windshield is so much bigger than your rear view mirror.”

    It will get better with time - I promise!

16. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 1:14PM UTC

    I usually like to rant about jobs I hated to relatives or friends. They’re always willing to lend an ear.

    You could try the same.

17. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 6:56PM UTC

    No family member or friend really wants to hear us bitch and moan about horrible jobs and people they don’t know.

18. ElizabethOctober 14,2025 at 1:44PM UTC

    I'm all for paying a therapist to listen to my rants and having them validate me and give me feedback on how to let go. Highly recommend.

19. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 2:12PM UTC

    Good for you for getting out of there. I like what others have said about going on Glassdoor , as long as you make your critique concise and unemotional so it has the most impact. For fun, you can share with all of us the name of the company!

20. Dr. Patty GrossOctober 14,2025 at 2:22PM UTC

    It is great that you found a new position quickly. Congratulations on that. What you don't want to happen is for this pent-up anger to jeopardize your new job. Check with your benefits department and see if you have an EAP program, so you can get referred to a therapist who can help you process what has happened to you. If there is no EAP, check your insurance provider's website to find a therapist in their provider directory. Good luck!!!

21. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 2:40PM UTC

    I went through the exact same thing at my first job out of college. There was a reorganization and the one woman who never smiled or said hi to me passing in the hallway became my supervisor after working with a great team for 4.5 yrs. The abuse lasted 1.5 years. A senior attorney in the firm suggested I get a lawyer because she saw what was happening, but being young I didn’t understand it all. I was terminated in much the same way as you, not able to speak. It’s honestly taken years, this was 16 years ago, I still get triggered often. I’ve had a lot of bad jobs with bad bosses, unfortunately. Last week I was finally told by a psychiatrist I have PTSD, something I suspected all these years. The doctor suggested EMDR, I think it is, to help get past it. I’ve taken an anxiety med ever since. Some things that have helped are thinking she must have had some serious issues to be like that toward anyone. It was her, not me. Also, I happened to meet someone at a subsequent job about 5 years ago who said she also worked with this woman and she was a ladder climber, trying to get ahead, mean. She also held a public position where she was caught getting out of taking MCLE continuing legal education required by law, and she was removed from her post for a while. I love karma. Lol I don’t know if I’ll ever get over it completely until I stop working and don’t have work triggers anymore, but it lessens with time.

22. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 3:01PM UTC

    Please connect with a therapist. Workplace trauma is very real. Therapy was the one thing that enabled me to work through all the anger and pain.

23. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 4:30PM UTC

    From my own experience, I can tell you it's very hard to get past it, but it does pass. I was let go from my job after 15 years, I was 55 at the time. I had a boss who yelled, bullied, back stabbed, etc. I filed a complaint against him for a specific incident, which made things worse. After several attempts to have me either fired or have me quit, he succeeded. I had a major medical event and when I returned, I was completely cut off. Next, my position was eliminated, I received an urgent meeting request and had no time to even process what I was hearing, let alone say everything or anything when I was asked if I had anything to say.

    At that moment all I could think about was loosing my medical and everything I had worked so hard for, I was in shock that a company would allow this. Keep in mind, I was in an executive position, he was a VP, so this decision was "visible", including my health situation. I also knew that it was the end of my working career, it was so much to take in.

    If a therapist would work for you, I suggest it. For me, I could not find one that clicked so I do my own self care and feel I have come a long way. I decided that I would not allow that past event to take any more of my time or emotions, I truly know life is too short and never promised. If you are happy then that's all that matters.

24. AnonymousOctober 14,2025 at 6:54PM UTC

    Horrible advice.

25. KatOctober 14,2025 at 9:13PM UTC

    I'm still working through this same type of situation. I got pushed out the door of my prior job after my boss retired. It's a pattern in that office so I'm glad to be out. I've got a new job that pays better and is less stressful. But the anger and frustration about how I was treated (micromanaged, unofficially put on a PIP, no support from most of my co-workers) is still there. It's hard to move on, especially when you've got a lot of anger and resentment built up that you can't express. If venting to your family and friends doesn't help, try writing it all out. Journaling, email (draft only) or handwritten can help you vent and release those emotions. Burn the letter if that will help make it final that you're moving on from that negative situation. Seek counseling too-you've got a lot to process and a counselor/therapist can really help you work through everything you've been through. Good luck and enjoy your new job. Focus on the future and not a job where people treated you badly.

26. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 12:17PM UTC

    I feel your pain, I've been in a similar situation and I can tell you I still have PTSD! It's a struggle but I would suggest writing it out in a letter/email that you'll never send but you can pour out all your emotion and call out their mistreatment. Some times it helps you to release some of that anger and trauma by writing it all out. Don't send it though! This is just for you and your mental health. So glad you found another job. Best of luck!

27. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 12:19PM UTC

    Please understand that you were the victim of abuse and give yourself a hug. It was not your fault and it is normal to have a range of emotions, including anger which is usually a secondary emotion stemming from another more painful feeling. You may also have a form of PTSD, which is not just flashbacks as many believe. Try therapy. Try meditation (this can be really hard to start - so try an app like Happier), us box breathing to get out of more acute anger or anxiety. Time will help, but that…takes time. You aren’t alone in this experience: the abuse was real and you didn’t deserve it. Hang in there and focus on building positive relationships at the new gig AND outside of work if possible.

28. Becky HarborthOctober 15,2025 at 12:25PM UTC

    I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. As others have already said, write it out or seek therapy, or do both. I’m sure the healing process will happen soon. Good luck!

29. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 12:47PM UTC

    That's a tough one but I completely understand why you feel that way. I think the biggest thing is it is going to take time. Understand that you are definitely in a better place (and tell yourself they are worse off without you). I left a place on my own terms, no notice...but I was so miserable there, it was a very toxic environment. I demanded an exit interview after leaving. I was sent a one pager, I added an additional page (and sent it all back). It was cleansing. Maybe consider doing something like - not even an exit interview - but writing it all down, getting it all out even if for your eyes only. Individual letters to each of the people that treated you so horrible...how they made you feel, that sort of thing. Again, this is your eyes only, but it can be cleansing to just get it all out on paper or whatever.

    Also, for your own benefit, write down what you learned. I'm not even talking about skills, experience...but what you learned as a person - after this experience, you should have a better idea of what you will and won't put up with, how you would handle such situations in the future, how you would counsel someone else in that situation.

30. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 12:49PM UTC

    Sorry, this will be a long reply.

    I had a similar experience in 2019 at a highly recommended organization. I was bullied by a horrible woman who was my manager, and a coworker who gaslit and harassed me. I moved to this fast-paced, high-tech and amazing city because of the job. I was so excited. Then, I went to new hire orientation only to be extremely disappointed in the people. I had no choice. I had just relocated. I lasted only six months which was six months too long. I quit without notice and left my resignation letter on the manager’s desk. Didn’t say anything negative, until, my union rep called me. I broke down over the phone and gave them all of the details. Needless to say, since I was part of the union, an investigation was underway. Apparently, there had been several complaints and resignations before I started. My ex-manager and coworker were fired, but the PTSD was awful. I didn’t work for a year. I didn’t try to get a job from fear. After a while and some soul searching, I started applying.

    Last year, I started seeing a therapist. She helped me move forward, but once I was hired at my latest position, I’m very much improved. It makes a difference when you have an organization with strong empathetic people and who care about wellness.

31. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 1:43PM UTC

    I'm still pretty annoyed about a layoff almost 10 years ago. It was a personal attack and planned by two people against me. I had stellar 4-5 star reviews my entire tenure and suddenly let go with no warning. It took a while to find out the backstory but I still had a lot of connections. I found new employment at a much higher salary and much nicer coworkers but part of me is still angry. The company did it to others after me as well and it was such a toxic place I'm happy to be gone but just feel like they tarnished my reputation with lies. It was a huge international company and others in different divisions are very happy there. Unfortunately they have a "no rehire for any reason after a layoff policy" I had another job opportunity with a competitor a while back and was on my 5th round of interviews and was offered the job verbally. When the offer was being written, the company was bought by my former employer. I spoke to the hiring manager and they consulted with HR in both organizations and they rescinded the offer because of the "no rehire" clause. So they screwed me over twice!! I wonder if they had offered the job and I started would they have automatically let me go after the merger was fully completed once they realized I was there?? There's several other companies that they've gobbled up in mergers since that I've had active applications with so it's been frustrating.

32. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 1:43PM UTC

    I was let go from a teaching position years ago. Along with half the staff at the school, I was called on a Saturday in the summer and told I was no longer employed. I was angry, of course—but I also had other, even stronger emotions: guilt for not “doing better,” heartbreak over losing the way I made a living, and disappointment in myself for not having better boundaries.

    Taking the time to really think through all my feelings helped. Journaling about the experience and reflecting on the lessons I learned was also healing. For example: “It wasn’t okay when my administrator asked me at the last minute to do this task. In the future, I will share the timeframe I need and let them know whether I can meet their deadline. If I can’t, I will say no.” Through reflection, I realized that anger was actually my secondary emotion—something I felt after the guilt, heartbreak, and disappointment.

    Tip #1: Determine your boundaries and what treatment you will or will not accept. This can help reduce anger and give you more empowering, grounded feelings as you move through future experiences.

    In a different situation—not job-related, but about a friendship—I was also angry. A friend’s actions had caused me a lot of grief, and I had never shared how much their lack of accountability had hurt me. So when they eventually reached out to say they needed to step away from the friendship, I felt angry again. Angry that they still hadn’t taken responsibility. I also felt regret: I wished I had ended the friendship myself, much earlier.

    In that case, my boundaries had been crossed, too. I ended up writing them an email explaining how I felt and outlining the ways they had crossed those boundaries. It was a heated email. I’m not necessarily recommending you do the same—but:

    Tip #2: Write the email, but don’t send it. Ask a trusted friend to read it. Share your thoughts with a therapist. Find some way to communicate and process your experience. Getting it out can be incredibly cathartic.

    Tip #3: If you're a person of faith, pray on this. It’s heavy to dedicate your time, energy, and heart to people and companies who aren’t worthy of that investment—or who don’t appreciate it. I often remind myself that I’m a child of God, and prayer has been a powerful source of comfort and strength for me.

33. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 11:23PM UTC

    I'm a teacher too, and I can attest that this is a great answer. In so many schools, being a teacher is like being in an abusive relationship where you are taken advantage of again and again unless you put a stop to it. I hope that losing that job was a blessing in disguise for you. To anyone who is out of work or who works in a toxic environment, please don't let it affect how you view yourself. You have infinite value, even if your paycheck doesn't reflect it or you aren't receiving a paycheck at all.

34. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 4:37AM UTC

    Amen! It was ultimately a blessing. Thank God for teachers.

35. amici4vitaOctober 15,2025 at 1:45PM UTC

    I definitely feel your pain. I went through a similar thing the day before my birthday in 2020. It has taken me years to trust again. I still catch myself questioning and feeling anxious, but I currently have an amazing manager whom I can talk through those things with, which is such a blessing.

    One of the things I've done to work through the poor treatment I had is to review the company on sites like Glassdoor. I feel that is a good platform to let people know what they might experience. I know time has changed the people at the company, but that doesn't mean they are hiring different senior management.

    Another thing that has helped me has been talking about how amazing my new company and manager is and vocalizing how grateful I am. Keeping my eye on this prize instead of the negative.

36. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 3:04PM UTC

    You aren’t allowed to talk negatively about the company are you if you were let go/ given a severance package ? I think that was stated in the paperwork i signed for severance

37. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 1:48PM UTC

    I lost a six figure position several years ago under similar circumstances. I had given my all but had a flagrantly dishonest manager. I was powerless to do anything , and it was incredibly toxic. Then I was handed severance papers for no cause at all... This occurred After 4 years of me absolutely crushing my position.And working so many hours Of unpaid overtime. I Understand exactly how you feel. I told my partner that I felt as if I had been raped, yes raped. ... Because I felt completely powerless and they pretty much took everything from me in terms of my income and benefits. I had absolutely no recourse. So I understand deeply how you feel.And how you never had an opportunity to speak truth to anyone. There is no quick and easy answer. Grieving in the expression of anger will take months and may be even a couple of years... I did eventually see a therapist, but I only went for 3 visits.Because the therapist told me that I had my head on straight and there was nothing to help except time... And he was correct. It has been six years now and I look back at that job and those people as a different person.... My life is full and good and joyful. I have never been able to replace that salary or those benefits, but I live a life of integrity... And so do you. Just know that grieving and anger are processes that take time and you cannot rush them... Make sure to get some exercise every single day, And find the love that is in the world. Don't let these nasty people steal your joy

38. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 7:39PM UTC

    I experienced the same type of situation 17 years ago. It was toxic, hostile and I asked my manager to fire me so I could collect unemployment. He complied, as he saw the writing on the wall as well, we were all doomed in a sinking ship. Even though I broke out in hives approximately a month after I left, and thinking about some of the management still makes me ill, I choose to look at the bright side. I have a handful of associates that I still keep in contact with, I learned a lot about business travel that I would not have gotten the opportunity for otherwise, and I stretched myself in two different roles as well in that short time. I chose positivity over stress, eventually, but it took time. I look back at it now as a stepping stone, even though it was a VERY tough lesson in Unethical Business 101. Keep your chin up and head high!

39. Jacqueline CutlerOctober 15,2025 at 1:51PM UTC

    Have been there. Talk to friends, a therapist, family, but don't spill everything to new co-workers. Know what you went through at the old job, as miserable as it was, did make you stronger. Soar! And, screw them. Try not to look back, but when you need to bitch, save it for those close to you, and don't share at work other than saying it's so much better to be where you are.

40. AnonymousOctober 15,2025 at 2:23PM UTC

    I went through something similar years ago. As everyone else says here, it will take time. I had actually really enjoyed the job during my first year there; it was an ideal position that matched my skills, and I liked my colleagues and got along with them well. My direct supervisor, though, was another story. She was a political hire and management bowed to her for some reason even though she was incompetent and out of her league. She was threatened by staffers such as myself with more knowledge, skills and experience. She made my last several months very, very hard and convinced HR and my hiring manager to turn on me. I had to take a transfer to a role I wasn't really thrilled about, but it was a way to get away from her. Years later, I'm in a much better place much happier and earning more than I ever would have at my previous employer.

    What happened to you happened, and you did what you could to survive. Talk to a therapist who specializes in workplace issues and remind yourself that you're now in a new place. Don't expect the same treatment at this new place-- every employer is different. Rotten people are everywhere, but this time around, you're better prepared.

41. Howard BryelsOctober 16,2025 at 4:34PM UTC

    Wow, this sound just like my experience! I wont share the employer, but its the biggest one in the city.... high turnover because of this very thing. Managers are just inept, and there for the perks... no real work done, just reactive activities....

42. Roya F.October 15,2025 at 2:34PM UTC

    First, Congratulations on your intelligence, strength and success! You are out of there. I’m working with a therapist and this helps me process the trauma.

43. Lisa McCartneyOctober 15,2025 at 7:49PM UTC

    I would write them a letter (DO NOT SEND IT) and then burn it. You essentially will be able to get out the anger by writing it out and the fire will be cleansing.

44. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 12:52AM UTC

    Feel You

45. Orlagh CostelloOctober 16,2025 at 12:26PM UTC

    Therapy.

46. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 12:53PM UTC

    You're not going to like this but. Forgive yourself... it happened, it was awful, but I find that most resentment stems from within. We can't control what other people do to us or how they treat us so when we choose (because offense is a choice)-but when we choose to stay in that environment that's not doing us any good then it turns into resentment but ultimately, it's on us to forgive ourselves. Again, not saying that you did anything wrong, what happened to you was awful and shouldn't have happened. But it was a toxicity that you had to endure until something better came along. Forgiving yourself will allow you to move on. And will allow you to "accept" what happened and eventually forgive those that wronged you. Give yourself grace and patience.

47. Focused541800October 16,2025 at 2:00PM UTC

    Get some counseling.

    Write a letter with all the things you would like to say. Work on it refine it spend a few times with it. Then mail it or trash it.

    Also write a letter to a friend who went through this give them advice on how to prevent or move on. This letter is to you. It might be easier to say to a friend use kindness and empathy as you would with a friend.

48. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 3:47PM UTC

    Commiserating here since similar nonsense happened at a job that was supposed to be a step-up. I left them a rather angry review on Glassdoor after finding another position.

49. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 4:30PM UTC

    I have had a similar experience with my previous employer. I experience something called "reactive abuse" . The blatant disrespect was apparent, but I had no one to talk to, so it sounded like I was complaining. Each day became more and more unbearable, due to isolation, hybrid schedule kept the office very scarce with no one to really question about my function, when I did ask, no one knew anything. On top of that, my "manager" was new and took every question I asked as a question to her "authority", when it was really because she did NOT KNOW. The end came when I was "reacting" and was told I need counselling. No mention of the "signing bonus" that was ignored, although I completed the requirements. I resigned without a job to go to... but I learned more being away from that place. When its a toxic workplace, you either learn to "play the game" or stick to your personal boundaries...I chose the later. Any yeah, Im still in counselling ...

50. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistOctober 16,2025 at 5:15PM UTC

    Being miserable is, for the most part, a choice. Choose happiness.

51. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 6:39PM UTC

    Have you ever worked in a toxic environment where you were bullied? I'm guessing not.

52. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistOctober 17,2025 at 11:43PM UTC

    Guess again.

    I worked in a toxic environment so toxic that my employer sued me. And of course, lost - because their entire case was built on lies. Not even sophisticated lies. Lies which so flimsy and ridiculous they were immediately seen through by the Judge.

    Which is how I know that being miserable was a choice. i was very angry about everything that had happened and the only person being impacted by that anger was me, and to a lesser degree, my family. So I made a conscious decision to let it go. Doing that changed my life. I chose happiness.

53. Focused541800October 18,2025 at 1:43PM UTC

    You were able to get validation and other officials to realize the toxicity. Not having that makes a huge difference. Happy for you. You must have never experienced anxiety, depression or other mental conditions that you were not able to work past. Also this person didn’t state if there was another income in the house hold. That can make this situation even more stressful. This choice comment is not offering empathy to any one including yourself.

54. AnonymousOctober 17,2025 at 2:14PM UTC

    This is not helpful.

55. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 5:23PM UTC

    I totally understand and feel your pain! I got laid off from a job 10 months ago because of a very toxic boss that did not like me, did not bother to help coach or grow my career there and was not an effective manager at all. I wrote a letter to the CEO (who was amazing and that I admired and respected, but unfortunately it wasn't up to them to let me go) and ended up burning it because I didn't wanna cause any trouble especially because they gave severance upon my departure, and because my manager reported directly up to the CEO (the company was small - about 300 people). Thankfully, I was able to get a job three months later, but I carried over some of my anxiety from my previous role into my new role and I just had my six month check up with my new manager (who is amazing and complete opposite of my old manager) and they mentioned to me how they feel like I'm avoiding them when it comes to asking questions and trying to solve problems, and I didn't realize that until they mentioned it to me, and then I explained to them about the previous trauma experienced with my my former manager, and how they never wanted to help me and my new manager assured me that I can come to them to vent to seek guidance and help to bounce ideas off of which is the kind of manager I never had in my old manager. So through some therapy and talking it out with some friends and family and of course, having that conversation with my new manager, I was able to release my previous tensions and anxiety from my old workplace.

56. AnonymousOctober 16,2025 at 5:49PM UTC

    I found it really helpful to leave a detailed review of the company on a certain platform. That way, I could tell my side of the story and keep my perspective objective by stating facts that were indisputable enough for the company to (internally) take some accountability if they ever read my review. I wanted to leave the company room to improve if they were open to it, and I also enjoyed kind of "warning" future employees of the types of shenanigans that were going on within the organization. By framing it in this way, I felt that sure, I was getting to vent, but I was also giving others the opportunity to learn.

57. Christina ConnollyOctober 17,2025 at 12:52PM UTC

    I've done that. I also found it helpful to write letters to my boss/individual team members, I took a no holds barred approach there, everything I'd seen or knew (and pretended I hadn't in real time). I was ugly and plain spoken with my language, in part because I needed to express all of that, and partly because I knew I was not sending those letters. They were for me. I said everything weighing on my spirit, printed them out (did NOT save on my computer), then stood in the bathtub and burned them.

58. Karimah M. Bennett, MBA, MJurOctober 17,2025 at 12:29PM UTC

    I definitely understand your experience and your perspective. I lost my position on July 18th and am honestly still angry and resentful. I got upset about it yesterday as a matter of fact, but I would suggest taking it one day at a time, and then remembering to celebrate your new situation and position. I tell myself to remember how bad it was and how unhappy I was suffering the mental and emotional abuse in my previous workplace, and how it caused me to enter into a severe depression and anxious state. Then I go for a walk at my new job and appreciate how much better it is, emotionally and mentally. The benefits are better. I don't have a micromanaging director. Everything is great!

59. Tiana MumfordOctober 17,2025 at 12:31PM UTC

    Greetings

    A lot of people experience more than you know . We have a safe haven for you to share I have been a member for over a year it has helped me tremendously and other women and men to cope . Check out www. Endworkplaceabuse.com/indiana-chapter . You do not have to be a resident we support no matter where you are it’s virtual.

60. AnonymousOctober 17,2025 at 12:53PM UTC

    I was also recently let go from a very toxic place and the owner and President never told me why Just told my supervisor to let me go. I never got to say anything either. I wish I did! I dream of running into them somewhere and just going off!! It feels really great in my dream so maybe it will bring me some peace if it happens lol?

61. AnonymousOctober 17,2025 at 12:56PM UTC

    You have a great new job. I would do everything to excel in the new company and think about how every day you actually won by finding something better that allows you to grow, achieve, and succeed. Look at the "win" and hope that eventually they get what they are due. I had a similar experience and when those people were eventually let go, I figured it finally came full circle. In the end, I ended up better off and I consider that my "win."

62. Mary BlakeOctober 17,2025 at 1:23PM UTC

    What you experienced was very traumatic and you have PTSD. I would do some short term therapy. Instead of anger, reframe it as increased awareness, you can now recognize bullying, toxicity, and can better advocate for yourself. This is not your fault- but these jobs see a vulnerability in their targets. Is there anything you would do differently- possibly speak up more, assert your boundaries, notice the signs early on and make your escape plan.

63. AnonymousOctober 17,2025 at 2:10PM UTC

    You are experiencing PTSD/trauma. I read a study the other day that said it can take up to 22 months to recover from work trauma. It’s deep and it’s real!!

    Of course, a therapist is the best option, but it is expensive and it can take some trial and error to find the right fit.

    Since the pandemic, I’ve been using the HeadSpace and Calm apps to help with anxiety, trauma, and sleep. They really help. The apps go on sale during Black Friday if you want to try one of them out.

    After your nervous system has calmed, make sure to share your job experience on this platform and on GlassDoor. Companies need to be accountable and you deserve to have a voice. Just make sure it’s honest but professional. That’s why I suggest waiting until you are calmer.

    unfortunately, your experience is the rule, not the exception.

    I cannot believe you were instructed not to speak!! Unbelievable!! I know your pain. Hang in there!!

64. Kelsey BurnesOctober 17,2025 at 8:15PM UTC

    Glassdoor ?

65. Titra HamiltonOctober 17,2025 at 8:32PM UTC

    I was recently let go from a toxic work environment. First off, give yourself time and forgiveness for being mad. Be grateful for what you have that is going well and hold on to that. Reconnect with the good people in your life whom you may have missed from working so much and being burned out. Also, move your body, preferably outside. Meditation, sound baths, yoga and lifting heavy have helped me burn off the anger and resentment of being treated unfairly. Lastly, commit to finding your voice and advocating for yourself going forward. For example, as you look for your next opportunity, consider using the experience to interview perspective employers more thoroughly and ask for what you'll need. From my experience, I learned that certain workplace practices just do not work for me (e.g., high number of distractions from heavy reliance on instant messaging and impromptu meetings to address "fire drills"). I always asked about corporate engagement and acceptance of change, but now, I ask more pointed questions about the work environment. Good luck and embrace the opportunity for a career reset for the better.

66. AnonymousOctober 17,2025 at 11:39PM UTC

    Another case of "live and learn", but has some benefits:

    1) I was able to recognize signs that a situation would be as you describe and could avoid them in the future, leading to future happiness.

    2) I could help others recognize the signs before they accepted the job or during the job that had these same characteristics. In this way, the situation could be used to help others.

    3) When in a leadership position, I now knew exactly what type of atmosphere I did not want or want to be perpetuating.

    4) The people involved undoubtedly knew how they were treating others or if not, due to turnover, could eventually figure out the reason. They probably did not care, though, so any conversation about the abuse with them would have fallen on deaf ears and the only person hurt would have been me.

    5) Holding in that anger was, as they say, like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die. Therefore, I wrote about it and tried to get it out of my system that way plus in helping others, as in 2) above.

    6) Being a person of faith, I concluded that the situation was His way of moving me on to something better. In my case, I did not have the technical background to move to the job I ended up in after the toxic situation, so during that time I did gain technical skills to qualify me for the resulting "wonderful" job after that one.

    Hope some of these points resonate with you. They did help me to let go of the natural anger which arises in such situations.

67. AnonymousOctober 18,2025 at 12:24PM UTC

    ALL OF THIS ^ Especially 1 & 4. That's "the gift" of it all.

    Trust that at some point chickens come home to roost. They always, always do. Even if you don't "see" it, know that you don't have to do anything to let them know. Just find a way to take care of you where you can let this go and trust me that you'll thank them at some point for showing you who not to be/be around.

68. Farah BajwaOctober 17,2025 at 11:51PM UTC

    You may want to try a forgiveness meditation or look up ho'oponopono. They have helped me in the past.

69. AnonymousOctober 18,2025 at 3:27PM UTC

    I've experienced this twice in long running positions (18 yrs then 10 yrs).

    Faith in God: spending time reading my Bible and prayer.

    Fitness: working out to fun music in my community or on demand on line. Gets those happy endorphins going and never regret a workout.

    Fun: spend time doing things you enjoy and being grateful for where you are now.

    Holding on to anger hurts you and robs you of inner joy and peace.

    Blessings to you.

70. AnonymousOctober 18,2025 at 4:17PM UTC

    Therapy. A burn later. A scathing review on Glassdoor & every other site that reviews companies.

71. AnonymousOctober 18,2025 at 10:34PM UTC

    I am so sorry you had to go through that- but please they are NOT worth your precious time and emotional energy!! I am in my fifties and 6 of my team including myself were laid off about A year and half ago!! I felt the same way - we were given severance packages and I got my bonus !! 4 months after, I got a new position with a good salary 90% more than I was making with a very good company!! I pinch myself every day !! Best thing that happened- it’s their loss- let it go !!!

72. AnonymousOctober 19,2025 at 6:05PM UTC

    My response is a bit different since you've received many great one. Alternatively, think about what you learned there. You now have developed a wisdom you didn't have before. You have learned red flags to watch out for, you have learned when it's healthiest to pull the trigger and leave on your own.

    Maybe some of this will help you when interviewing at new to you companies, you will be more sensitive to these things to avoid a bad-for-you hire to begin with.

73. AnonymousOctober 19,2025 at 6:54PM UTC

    This is very natural and i dont think i will ever be able to forgive what happened to me. i get nightmares and often have disturbed sleep the way my employment was terminated. i know this is not you wanted to hear but remember that you are not alone and its natural. Moving on is not easy but thank God you got another job immediately. My suggestion would be to talk to your former colleaugues (who sage the same sentiment as yours) and speak your heart out. That has helped me.

74. Kryssy SantanaOctober 19,2025 at 10:20PM UTC

    Its hard I went to therapy helped me to feel validated. I tell myself it will take time and finding a better work place helped too

75. pauline jensenOctober 20,2025 at 1:59AM UTC

    Well, they'll probably treat the next person like that too, and then she'll quit. Once the abuse started u should've just left, espec. if it wasn't a good job.

76. Mystery MysteryOctober 26,2025 at 6:57AM UTC

    It is possible she could not afford financially to leave. Sometimes people stay in an abusive job until another one opens because they have bills to pay and need to pay for food and shelter.

77. AnonymousOctober 21,2025 at 12:11AM UTC

    I am so sorry you went through this! Having been through a similar experience, I understand how residual anger can creep up. As others have posted, this is definitely PTSD. Corporate abuse is excused, but no different than abuse in other relationships. If I may, I would suggest the following in your healing journey:

    1. If there is any way you can, find a good therapist who specializes in IFS or EMDR therapy. There you can unpack all of the rage you didn't get to express to those who did you wrong - in a safe space where you won't be judged.

    2. To avoid getting stuck on that cycle of expressing the same anger for years, sit with those difficult feelings and process where they came from. You can even write it down in a journal: Why did this bother you? What about their behavior is triggering you? Is there another time in your life when you felt this way? What was the situation? Etc. Keep writing in a journal. Eventually the raw, escalated emotion may start to resolve. The sooner you can acknowledge your feelings, and process them, the sooner you can move on with your life.

    3. Aren't there some good places out there where you can take your anger out in a healthy way, for example using a sledgehammer to break things (with safety goggles, etc.)? That might help!

    4. Speaking of energy, absolutely turn that energy into something positive and workout! Go for a run or walk. Lift some weights. Eventually, that anger will simply have become the fuel that made YOU stronger.

    5. You might find it helpful to join some sort of support grip for those who have gotten out of abusive relationships. You might be surprised how much you relate to other people's situations.

    6. Consider: holding onto those feelings of anger and resentment, can continue to give the abuser power. Proactively taking steps towards your healing will lead to empowering yourself so that NO ONE - corporate or otherwise - will be able to abuse you again.

    In my own situation, I have gone to therapy, taken multiple college classes to advance my own career and am planning to write articles and a book about my experience. I hope some of these ideas help you! You didn't deserve to be treated that way, but it's their loss. One question I now want to answer for myself is, why did I stay in an abusive job for so long? I will never let that happen again!

    Wishing you complete healing.

78. Chelsey UhrigOctober 24,2025 at 2:54AM UTC

    I went through horrible traumatic abuse at my second to last job as well. And it’s been 2 years! I just started trauma therapy about 2 months ago and it’s going well but I still feel so silenced! I feel you! It’s hard to let go but definitely get some help sooner than later. I wish I had because it’s made my life hell since. Can’t wait to get over this hurdle!

79. Catherine StrosinMay 18,2026 at 9:58AM UTC

    I totally get where you’re coming from! After a tough job, I found journaling really helped me process leftover anger. It’s like clearing out mental clutter. Have you tried anything like that? Finding healthy outlets can really shift your perspective and make moving forward easier. https://spacewavesgame.io