I currently work in healthcare in an overworked HR/ benefits department; the turnover rate is high, and most people don't last more than a few weeks. My manager is passive-aggressive and does the bare minimum. The culture is toxic, and from what I've learned, it's been this way for a long time. All three managers in place have 20+ years in their role and no plans to go anywhere.

5 Comments

1. AnonymousAugust 15,2024 at 2:12AM UTC

   The only concern I can see in your decision is paying your own health insurance. Does this company cover any of it? You must weigh your sanity versus money. Take the leap as it’s a safer space for your mental health. And if a increase is probable within 4 months, go for it! Stay there a year and maybe seek work elsewhere if it doesn’t meet all of your needs. But consider leaving your current role to save your sanity or stay and lose what little strength in your mental health that’s left. Would you drive down the same road if the road continues to damage your car? No you would take another path. Take another path and you may find a healthier environment that’s better for you. Keep us posted and good luck!

2. Mare LevineAugust 15,2024 at 2:13AM UTC

   Hello Anonymous, I suggest you put yourself and your future happiness first. You say, "My mental health is crashing. The culture is toxic. Turnover is high." Those are all big red flags.

   No one can guarantee things will be perfect at the start-up, but you already know where they suck. I moved 2,400 miles across country to join a start-up in my late 50s. It was a tremendous learning experience and I grew a lot. Eventually, I moved on to another job adventure but I don't regret that time.

   Don't let fear of being laid off or trying something new keep you imprisoned. You deserve a job that is a better partner to you.

3. AnonymousAugust 15,2024 at 2:52PM UTC

   Take it from one who has been there: sanity and job satisfaction are more valuable than money. Have you worked out a budget to see where you would be with the other company? You said the current company has a 35-hour work week, but it sounds like you actually work much more than that. Divide your actual hours by your gross pay to see what your hourly rate is, and I would guess you might be surprised. If you go hybrid with your current company, it sounds like they reevaluate whether or not you can stay that way monthly. That will only add to the stress. You state that the start-up is not perfect, but nothing is. If you can wait for another offer to come along, then pass. If you feel like your mental health is about to break you, you should consider it seriously.

4. AnonymousAugust 30,2024 at 12:53PM UTC

   A career coach once told me that sometimes next jobs aren't long jobs - for many reasons (not a good fit, life happens, onto something new, etc.).

   Your rationale of pros and cons is good. Your fear of change is valid. From my experience and observations - recognizing every challenge is also an opportunity and you do have an opportunity to enhance your boundary setting in the workplace - - your post says it all. A bad work environment is bad for your health full stop. The longer you stay there, the longer it impacts you. If you have a shot to leave, take it. Don't look back. (Sure, it's a risk. Bank on you!- You know the answer if you bank on your current job's leadership---).

   Remember change begets change. Go for the new job...and keep looking for other jobs. The point is to leave where you're at. Focus on a better future.

   Good luck!

5. Stephen ChandlerJuly 2,2025 at 1:49PM UTC

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