A classic piece of advice we get from friends when we complain about work is: "Get out! Your mental health is more important!"
In theory, it's ideal advice. But in reality? Maybe the job that's stressing you out is also the one that pays the rent, the bills, and the wine you drink with the same friends who tell you to "leave." And, to be honest, sometimes there just aren't any other immediate alternatives.
According to a recent article in Self magazine, feelings like fatigue, dissatisfaction, and even job aversion are more common than we think. But if these feelings become permanent, then they're no longer just "passing fatigue"; they're signs that something more serious needs to change.
However, if the unhappiness is still manageable, mental health expert Kerri Smith-Osei suggests some easier ways to protect our well-being, without jeopardizing financial stability.
1. Set clearer boundaries
It’s easy to fall into the trap of always being “available.” Perhaps it’s become the norm to take over for an absent colleague, return work messages at 10 p.m., or stay in meetings long after the shift ends. We do it out of solidarity, or because we love our jobs.
But if this sacrifice is taking a toll on your mental (or even physical) health, it's time to reevaluate your boundaries. Without being irresponsible to your work or colleagues, who we certainly wouldn't want to let down, setting boundaries is a form of self-care that no one else can do for you.
2. Rest
The most stressful job in the world still needs a break. But have you forgotten what it's like to really relax? If you're answering emails during lunch or discussing clients even during "breaks" with colleagues, then you're not resting.
According to psychotherapist Tiffany Young, these small interruptions to work, even during downtime, have a real negative impact on mental health. So make a small effort: go for a walk, sit in a coffee shop, and talk about anything other than work. Even a simple conversation can make a difference.
3. Take care of your life outside of work
It's easy to tie your entire identity to your job. But that makes every problem at work feel like a personal crisis.
Starting a new hobby, whether it's yoga or reading, isn't just for fun. It's a way to disconnect from work and build a sense of accomplishment that doesn't depend solely on emails or monthly performance.
4. Plan different activities
If you feel truly stuck in a job that doesn't do you any good, it doesn't mean that the solution is to immediately resign.
According to Dr. Young, a plan with small steps is much more helpful and less stressful. This could mean something as small as updating your resume or talking to a former colleague who works elsewhere. Such small actions create a sense of moving toward a solution, which has an immediate positive impact on mental health.
5. Use your job as a springboard, not an obstacle.
Instead of seeing work as the end of the road, try reframing it as a tool to build the future.
Smith-Osei suggests asking yourself, "What can I learn or improve in this workplace until I'm ready to leave?"
If, for example, you're going into digital marketing, start getting more involved with the company's social media. If you lack creativity, suggest a project that involves visual solutions or new ideas.
The goal is not to hate your job, but to not feel like you're wasting your time.
