Feeling drained every day isn’t just “part of having a job”.
Sure, certain professions come with a bit of built-in stress, but earning a pay cheque shouldn’t become so overwhelming that you struggle to drag yourself out of bed in the morning. If your work is taking a serious toll on your mental health, it’s time to face the facts that you’re in a toxic situation that you need to get out of. Here are some signs your job is slowly destroying you — don’t let it!
1. You dread going to work every morning.
If the thought of going to work fills you with anxiety or dread, that’s a red flag. Work shouldn’t be something you’re terrified to face on a daily basis. All that constant stress can wear you down over time. Consider what specifically is causing this feeling and whether it’s something that can be changed. Ignoring this won’t make it go away; addressing it is the first step toward improvement.
2. You’re constantly exhausted, even after rest.
Feeling tired after a long day is normal, but perpetual exhaustion isn’t. If you can’t recharge even after a good night’s sleep or a weekend off, your job might be the culprit. This kind of fatigue can impact every aspect of your life, including your relationships and hobbies. Don’t dismiss constant tiredness; it’s your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong.
3. You can’t switch off after work hours.
If work thoughts invade your personal time, and you can’t relax, that’s a problem. Everyone needs time to unwind and disconnect. Constantly being “on” can lead to burnout. Setting boundaries between work and personal life is important for your mental health, so make a conscious effort to leave work at work.
4. You’re experiencing physical symptoms of stress.
Headaches, stomach issues, and muscle tension can all be signs of job-related stress, mental health charity Mind points out. Your body often reacts when your mind is under strain. Don’t ignore these symptoms; they’re your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms persist.
5. Your mood has become increasingly negative.
If you find yourself irritable, angry, or sad more often than not, your job might be affecting your mood. Negative emotions that persist can harm your mental health. Pay attention to how you feel during and after work to identify any patterns. A consistently negative mood isn’t something to overlook.
6. You’re isolating yourself from friends and family.
Withdrawing from social activities and loved ones isn’t a good sign. If you’re too drained to engage with people you care about, your job might be taking too much from you. Social support is important for coping with stress, so don’t cut yourself off. Reach out and let people know how you’re feeling. They wouldn’t want you to struggle in silence.
7. You’ve lost interest in activities you used to enjoy.
When work consumes you to the point that you no longer find joy in your hobbies, it’s time to reassess. Losing interest in what once made you happy can be a sign of declining mental health. Make time for the things that bring you satisfaction outside of work. Reconnecting with your passions can improve your overall mood.
8. You’re experiencing frequent illnesses.
Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, leading to more colds and other illnesses. If you’re getting sick more often, your job stress might be compromising your health. Taking care of your physical health is just as important as your mental well-being. Don’t ignore recurring health issues; they may be stress-related.
9. You feel unappreciated and undervalued.
Feeling like your efforts go unnoticed can wear down your self-esteem. Everyone wants to feel valued for their contributions. If your workplace doesn’t recognise your hard work, it can negatively impact how you view yourself. Consider discussing your concerns with a supervisor or seeking a more supportive environment.
10. You’re having trouble concentrating.
Difficulty focusing on tasks can be a sign of stress or burnout. If you find your mind wandering or tasks taking longer than they should, your job stress might be affecting your cognitive functions. This can create a cycle of reduced productivity and increased stress. Addressing the root cause can help break this cycle.
11. You’re relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Turning to alcohol, overeating, or other harmful behaviours to cope are serious warning signs. These habits can temporarily mask stress, but ultimately worsen your mental health. Finding healthier ways to deal with job stress is important. Consider exercise, meditation, or speaking with a professional for better coping strategies.
12. You feel trapped with no way out.
Feeling like you have no options and are stuck in a bad situation can lead to hopelessness. Such a negative mindset can severely hurt your mental health. Remember, there are always other ways, even if they require effort to find or pursue. Exploring new opportunities can open doors you didn’t know existed.
13. Your sleep patterns are disrupted.
Insomnia or oversleeping can both be signs of stress and depression. If work-related thoughts keep you up at night, or you’re sleeping excessively to escape, it’s time to address the issue. Sleep is vital for mental health, and disruptions can exacerbate problems. Establish a healthy sleep routine to help manage stress.
14. You’ve considered quitting without a backup plan.
If you’re so unhappy that you’re willing to leave without another job lined up, that’s a significant indicator. While impulsively quitting isn’t advisable, acknowledging this feeling is important. It might be time to seriously consider a change for the sake of your mental health. Planning your next steps can provide a sense of control and hope.
