Navigating mental health when determining the decision of whether to stay in a job or leave due to mental health reasons can be overwhelming and deeply personal. In some cases, leaving a job may feel like the only option to prioritise mental health, and stories of people doing just that often flood platforms like LinkedIn, where they express their relief and newfound calmness. But the reality for many others is more complex. There’s no simple solution, and leaving a job isn’t always feasible or the right answer for everyone.
This article touches on both sides of the conversation—the people who choose to leave and find some kind of peace, as well as those who may feel stuck, unsure of what’s best for their mental health, and weighed down by the potential consequences of their decisions.
Deciding to Leave or Stay for Your Mental Health
There is no universal rule that can tell you whether you should stay in a difficult work environment or leave it for the sake of your mental well-being. The decision ultimately comes down to individual circumstances, personal growth, and what you feel is right for your mental health journey.
Consider Your Growth and the Culture
It’s important to differentiate between a toxic workplace and one that challenges you. Toxic environments punish employees for speaking up, fail to reward hard work, or cultivate fear and shame as motivators. If you find yourself in such a space, leaving may be the best option.
However, there are workplaces that are difficult but not necessarily toxic—perhaps the difficulty is pushing against personal insecurities, and there is potential for growth if those challenges are confronted. In these cases, working through personal development while staying in the role could be beneficial. That said, self-awareness is key. It’s essential to recognise whether the current discomfort is promoting growth or worsening your well-being.
Motives Matter
Understanding why you want to stay or leave is crucial. Reflect on whether your decision stems from fear, frustration, burnout, or a desire for relief. It’s also helpful to ask yourself whether you are avoiding difficult conversations or choosing to run from conflict. In some cases, confronting the challenges head-on and advocating for yourself can lead to positive career change. At the same time, there is no shame in choosing to prioritise your mental health by seeking new opportunities if the current job environment is harmful.
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Before making your decision, it’s worth exploring if your employer offers an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Sometimes, it isn’t the workplace itself that’s the root of the stress but external factors like family or home life that affect your ability to cope at work. An EAP can offer professional mental health support, helping you manage stress more effectively and potentially realise that the work environment isn’t the problem.
Exploring Your Options: Stay or Go?
If you’re on the fence about whether to leave or stay, try asking yourself these questions:
- Why have I left things in the past? Understanding patterns in your decision-making around leaving jobs or relationships can help uncover deeper feelings and unhealed wounds that may influence your choice.
- What are my boundaries at work? If you’re feeling burned out, examine what led to this exhaustion. Are there areas where you need to say “no” more? Have you communicated your needs with your team or leadership?
- Have I talked to my leaders? It’s easy to assume that nothing will change, but sometimes being vulnerable and expressing your concerns can result in better support or a shift in workplace dynamics.
Mental Health and Work: A Global Perspective
Mental health in the workplace is a significant concern worldwide. In fact, 15% of the working-age population live with a mental disorder, and conditions like depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion each year due to reduced productivity. The World Health Organisation emphasises that while work can be a protective factor for mental health, it can also be a contributor to worsening conditions.
Workplaces have a responsibility to foster healthy environments where mental health is prioritised, and employees can participate fully and equitably. Unfortunately, many employees, like some of the anonymous stories shared here, face stigma and lack of support when they experience mental health challenges at work.