In need of advice

[Tiffa]

I took a job sometime back even though I knew it wasn't a good fit. Long periods of unemployment makes you desperate and jump at any opportunity, good or bad. I tried giving it a chance, but it's not working out for me. It actually worsens my anxiety and depression because I constantly feel inadequate and out of depth. I feel like quitting and looking for something that I love, but with the current job market, I'm not so hopeful. Being unemployed again is equally depressing. What should I do?

[Hidden]

I can agree with you about the current job market! I just started a new job this week. My husband is in a job that causes him immense stress, but also realizes that not having a job creates a bigger problem. Maybe you could try and view your job as an opportunity for growth professionally and personally vs. your feelings of inadequacy. I would at least try and turn it around before quitting. Sometimes I think we sabotage ourselves due to the negative way we think in general. You could at least vow to stay until you find a suitable job. Wishing you the best!

[Tiffa in reply to Hidden]

Hi, thanks for your response! I have tried to engage myself, but it has proven to be quite hard. In addition to the workplace being toxic and time-demanding, there's really no room for career progression. One thing that scares me is that I may get stuck here for a really long time without any growth financially, socially, and career-wise.

[Hidden in reply to Tiffa]

I understand. I would then, start my search for another job! It’s so much easier to get one when you have one! Wishing you peace of mind!

[Tiffa in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your words

[fauxartist]

stay employed while looking for another job...nobody say's you can't do both.

[hypercat54]

Hi I emphasise as I had exactly the same issue as you in my last job. After a period of unemployment I eagerly grabbed the only job I was offered in a call centre but hated it with a passion. I didn't want to be out of work again so grimly hung on to it because I desperately needed to get my finances solvent again.

I managed to hang on for over 5 years even though I knew it was killing me and making my depression worse. My stress levels were sky high too.

Not sure even now years later whether it was worth it. I took a decision at the time though which seemed the lesser or 2 evils and you can't change the past. Why not carry on looking for work whilst staying in your current job? It's easier to get another job whilst you are employed. x

[Tiffa in reply to hypercat54]

I am currently searching. How did you manage to stay afloat? I often find myself crying in the bathroom and having panic attacks.

[hypercat54 in reply to Tiffa]

I did the same. I ended up being bullied by a team leader (who had previous form) and was off sick for a couple of months.

I tried to make myself feel numb and to try and function on automatic pilot to avoid thinking and feeling. Not sure this is a good idea but it did help at the time. Any way to survive.... x

[Tiffa]

I'm so sorry you had to go through that. Thanks for sharing your experience. I felt like I was alone. Not sure how I'm going to manage but hopefully I'll find a way xx

[foreverbeach11]

Hi Tiffa, sometimes jobs just aren't good fits. Have you thought about why you feel inadequate and out of depth at this job? Maybe there is something that you can do to change your perspective of feeling this way. Have you considered you may need more training on how to do the job? Maybe consider looking for another job and keep the job you currently have. If you quit and become unemployed, it might make your anxiety and depression get worse. Keeping your current job may keep things manageable for you. When you get off from work, maybe start applying for other jobs and maybe something else will open up for you. Wishing you the best.