If you’re thinking about quitting a job for mental health reasons, you’re not alone. According to the American Institute of Stress, nearly 40% of US workers resign from their positions of employment due to anxiety, stress, or other mental health strains. While ending employment can feel scary, sometimes it’s the right step toward protecting your well-being. If thoughts like “I need to quit my job for mental health” keep crossing your mind, please keep reading. We’ll walk you through what to consider before making that decision, how to plan for it, and how to take care of yourself afterward.
Signs Your Job Is Negatively Affecting Your Mental Health
Some stress at work is normal. But if your job is making you feel constantly anxious, depressed, hopeless, or you’re experiencing emotional numbness at work, it may be harming your mental health. Here are a few signs to watch for:
Burnout from Chronic Work Stress
If you wake up every day dreading work, feel emotionally drained, or can’t relax even after work hours, you may be experiencing burnout. Over time, this can lead to more serious mental health concerns.
Toxic Work Environments and Mental Health
Workplaces with bullying, discrimination, or a lack of support can damage your self-esteem and emotional safety. If speaking up hasn’t helped or made things worse, it might be time to quit a job for mental health reasons.
Feeling Trapped in a Job You Can’t Escape
When your job causes you to feel stuck with no way out, those feelings can become overwhelming. It’s important to take these emotions seriously and explore your options.
What to Consider Before Quitting a Job for Mental Health
Quitting a job for mental health is a big step. It’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. Take some time to think through your decision and make a plan that works for you.
Talk to a Therapist Before Quitting Your Job
Before quitting a job for mental health, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor. Tell them about your workplace challenges. Ask them questions like, “Is it okay to quit your job for mental health reasons?” or “What can you do to improve your situation?” These questions will give you more clarity before taking action. Mental health treatment can also help you understand your emotions and explore healthy coping strategies. Speaking with a therapist might also help you figure out if there’s a way to make your current job more manageable.
Financial Planning Before Leaving a Job
Make sure you have some savings or a plan to manage expenses before leaving your job. If you don’t, you might trade one kind of stress for another. Look at your budget and see how long you can support yourself without income.
Know Your Legal Rights at Work
You may be eligible for medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or other workplace protections. In some cases, you could take time off for your mental health instead of quitting right away.
How to Quit a Job Due to Mental Health Reasons
If you’ve given careful consideration to the question, “Should I quit my job for my mental health?” The next steps are critical to keep yourself protected. After all, your well-being is more important than any paycheck. Here are some suggestions on how to quit a job for mental health reasons.
Create a Mental Health Exit Strategy
Don’t feel pressured to quit overnight unless your mental health is in serious danger. If possible, give yourself time to plan your departure. This might include job searching, getting support from loved ones, or setting a final date to leave.
Giving Notice When You Quit for Mental Health
If you’re in a position to give notice, try to do so in a professional manner. This helps protect your reputation and keeps the door open for future opportunities, even if the job wasn’t a good fit for you.
Life After Quitting a Job for Mental Health
Once you leave your job, focus on healing. This can be a time of recovery, reflection, and growth. Your next steps don’t have to be rushed.
Taking Time to Recover from a Toxic Job
It’s normal to feel exhausted after leaving a high-stress job. Give yourself permission to rest. Catch up on sleep, take walks, and do things that make you feel safe and grounded.
Rebuilding Self-Esteem After a Difficult Job
Toxic jobs can leave lasting scars. Take time to remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Working with a therapist or life coach can help you build back your self-esteem.
Finding a Mentally Healthy Work Environment
You don’t have to figure everything out right away. But when you’re ready, start thinking about what kind of work environment would support your mental health. Look for roles or companies that align with your values and offer balance and support.
Prioritize Your Mental Health and Know You're Not Alone
If you’re thinking about quitting a job for mental health, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Neurish Wellness, we provide personalized mental health care that helps you regain balance and feel like yourself again. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or the emotional toll of a toxic work environment, our team is here to help you process what you’re feeling and create a plan for recovery.
We offer a range of evidence-based treatments, including therapy, wellness support, and psychiatric care—all in a compassionate, judgment-free setting. You deserve a life where your mental health comes first, and we’re here to help you take that next step.
Ready to start healing? Contact Neurish Wellness today to learn more about our mental health programs and how we can support you. Your journey toward a healthier, more peaceful life starts here.
FAQs About Quitting Your Job for Mental Health
Is quitting your job for mental health a valid reason?
Yes, protecting your mental health is a valid reason to leave a job. If your work environment is harming your well-being and efforts to improve it haven’t helped, stepping away can be an important step toward recovery.
Will quitting my job make my mental health worse?
It depends on your situation. Some people feel relief and improved mental health after leaving, while others may feel anxious about finances or the unknown. That’s why planning ahead and seeking support can make the transition smoother.
Can I get unemployment if I quit for mental health reasons?
Unemployment rules vary by state. In some cases, if you can prove that your job was harmful to your health and that you tried to resolve the issue, you might still qualify. It’s best to check your local laws or speak with an employment attorney.
Should I tell my employer the real reason I’m quitting?
You don’t have to share personal mental health details unless you’re comfortable. It’s okay to keep your reason general, such as saying you’re stepping away for personal or health-related reasons.
What if I can’t afford to quit my job?
If finances are a concern, consider taking a leave of absence, reducing your hours, or searching for a new job while staying where you are. Talking to a mental health professional can also help you make a safer, more supported decision.
Is it worth quitting your job for mental health?
If your job is severely affecting your emotional well-being and no changes seem to help, then yes—it can be worth it. Your mental health impacts every part of your life, including your relationships, physical health, and ability to enjoy day-to-day moments. Leaving a harmful job may feel risky, but choosing your mental health is often a step toward a better, more balanced future.