A collage of a woman covering her face while surrounded by screaming mouths.
Too many people suffer in silence due to toxic workplace culture. From being belittled by your boss to dealing with competition with your coworkers, being in a toxic workplace can be draining. So, are you feeling depressed? Are you isolating from family and friends? Are you drinking more and living for the weekends? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may want to consider how your job is affecting your mental health.
Those who dread going to work or having one-on-one meetings with their boss may want to find another job. I don’t recommend leaving a job without having another one lined up. This doesn’t apply to situations where someone is thinking about self harm or is at risk of a mental health crisis.
This month is Mental Health Awareness Month, which means even more professionals are talking about mental health in the workplace. That’s why I made a list of signs that your job is affecting your mental health.
Dreading Work
This is a feeling most people have experienced. And it’s not your typical case of Sunday scaries. Jobs that make you take on maladaptive behaviors like chain smoking, nail biting, or skin pulling are not healthy. If you can’t afford to leave your job do everything you can to find a new one. When I am job hunting I get on weekly if not biweekly calls with professionals from LinkedIn. If you decide to do this try to connect with people in your field of work who have similar interests and values.
There’s no need to tell everyone you talk to that you plan to find a new job. Stick to a select group of people who can offer expertise and advice. If you are connected with colleagues on platforms like LinkedIn, X, and Instagram, do not post or mention that you are looking for a new opportunity. Be careful about who you tell about toxicity at work especially if you are in a niche field where people tend to know each other.
Feeling Depressed
Losing interest in things you loved before is a sign that you may be depressed. Consider talking to a medical professional about what you can do to manage your depression. Recognize that feeling hopeless is a major symptom of depression. Know that you won’t be at a toxic job or working under a toxic manager forever. It can be hard to apply for jobs while working full-time. And depression can cause people to feel less motivated. But you shouldn't spend your weekends binge watching TV and sleeping excessively when you’re trying to find a new job. Ask a medical professional or therapist about behaviors that will help you feel more motivated.
If you are so depressed that you are struggling to function it may be time to consider going on an antidepressant. Make sure that you consult a psychiatrist before taking an antidepressant. People who prefer not to take medication can try self-care practices that are known to reduce depression. That includes exercise, which is a great way to unwind after a long work day.
Drinking Heavily
Many professionals begin drinking heavily when they don’t enjoy their jobs. What may start as a nightcap could turn into full blown alcoholism. Anyone in the medical field will tell you that self-medicating isn’t healthy. Addiction is a vicious cycle, which some people get caught in due to being overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious from working in a toxic environment. If you work for someone that makes you feel any of those things make sure to monitor your alcohol consumption.
Also, you shouldn’t be binge drinking on weekends or drinking every day after work. Substitute unhealthy behaviors with fulfilling self-care methods like exercising, taking a hot bath, getting a massage, doing acupuncture, or spending time outside. All of these forms of self-care can make you feel less depressed, but it may not be enough. Remember that it’s okay to not be okay.
Lean on your family, friends, and community to get through. If you don’t enjoy your job, constantly dread work, feel depressed, or drink heavily after work, know that you are not alone. You have a bright future ahead of you, but you can’t thrive in your career if you don’t prioritize your mental health.