I am a 26 year old female and currently struggling with anxiety and depression.

Anonymous

August 12,2022 at 2:32PM UTC

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I am a 26 year old female and currently struggling with anxiety and depression. My job performance has decreased and I’ve been put on an action plan. My boss is supportive and worried about me, but I feel to others in the company less understanding of my situation. I haven’t been fully happy in the role for some time and have been applying to jobs. It’s a slow process and no luck, with a few companies ghosting. Do I quit my job for the sake of my mental health and spend quality time taking care of myself and finding the right roles to apply to? The guilt of not performaning well adds so much to the anxiety and depression. I live alone and would be financially insecure. Any help or advice would be appreciated.

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Shelly EdwardsAugust 12,2022 at 3:31PM UTC
I feel for your situation and your mental health, but if you will not be financially secure if you quit your current position, I would not do that until you find a new position. Being in a financially unstable position will only add to your anxiety and depression. While you make not like the job, I would try to improve your performance in it while you continue to look for another position. You may find that your lacking performance and feeling guilty about it is a partial contribution to your depressed state at work. if you are performing up to the best of your ability, even in a job you don't love, it can improve your own mental health a bit just by knowing you are doing your best. I wish you luck in finding the job that you love.
AnonymousAugust 12,2022 at 3:54PM UTC
If quitting before you have something lined up is an option I choose mental Health every time.
But in cases where the financial stress would be so great as to land you in the hospital then quitting doesn't offer an option.
JJAugust 12,2022 at 3:58PM UTC
I sorry you are going through this and hopefully your supportive boss can help you through this so you fo not have to leave.
AnonymousAugust 12,2022 at 4:54PM UTC
How long have you been with your current company? Do you have access to an EAP?
Also if you've been with the company long enough, maybe short term disability would be a solution.
AnonymousAugust 12,2022 at 7:24PM UTC
I would end up with more anxiety without money.
AnonymousAugust 13,2022 at 12:28AM UTC
Are you receiving treatment for your underlying anxiety and depression?
If not, that’s the first thing you should line up. In addition to talk therapy, you might need medication.
If you are concerned about expense, find a clinic in your area that bills on a sliding scale.
Can you apply for a leave of absence (under disability or the Family Leace Act) while you address your mental health? Or at least postpone the action plan?
My thought is mental health first, action plan second.