Is Your Job Making You Miserable?
Signs of Work-Related Depression and How to Cope
It seems like everyone is struggling with something these days, doesn’t it? Stress, burnout, and even depression are part of everyday life for many professionals.
Sometimes, this can stem from feeling uncertain about your career path, unsure of whether your current role is taking you where you want to go. While mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves—thanks to public figures like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry—there’s still one place where it feels almost impossible to talk about it at work.
For so many of us, admitting that we’re struggling at work feels like a personal failure. It’s that voice in your head telling you to keep going, to push through, to pretend everything’s fine—even when you’re thinking, my job is making me miserable. But deep down, you know something’s not right.
But here’s the truth: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or trapped by your job, and you’ve been asking yourself, “Is my job making me miserable?” It could be more than just a rough patch.
Let’s take a step back and figure out whether what you’re feeling is more than just stress. Could your job be making you depressed? And if so, what can you do about it?
Depression is a mental disorder that causes people to experience low moods. These moods are often accompanied by a loss of interest in life, feelings of guilt, low self-worth, disturbed sleep, reduced appetite, low energy, and poor concentration.
Find out how to handle stress at work.
That’s quite a list, isn’t it?
But it’s important to understand that depression isn’t the same as just feeling unhappy or stressed. Someone who is depressed will feel intense emotions of anxiety, hopelessness, and helplessness. These feelings don’t simply disappear after a few hours or days—they linger, sometimes for weeks or months.
Work-related depression can result from unresolved emotional experiences, constant pressure, or even an unsupportive company culture. When the company culture doesn’t align with your values or offers little emotional support, it can lead to feelings of unfulfillment and stress. It’s not just about the work itself, but the way it wears you down emotionally and physically.
Discover practical ways to stay motivated even when things feel overwhelming.
Depression may still be a taboo illness, but it affects all of us, no matter our background. Recognising the signs early is crucial so you can take steps to address it before it worsens.
Are these signs affecting your work? It might be time to consider a career change.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of work-related depression:
If you’ve never experienced depression before, these symptoms may feel confusing or frightening. You might find yourself avoiding your feelings—watching endless hours of TV, overeating, or picking fights with loved ones just to distract yourself.
But it’s essential to pay attention to these signs. Depression doesn’t just go away on its own.
For more signs to look out for, explore how work stress impacts your well-being.
Some jobs and companies can be toxic, draining the joy from your life. A toxic work environment can have a negative impact on your mental health, leading to burnout, decreased productivity, and even physical symptoms such as frequent illness. This stress doesn’t just stay at work—it can seep into your personal life, affecting your relationships, sleep, and overall well-being. If you’re constantly under pressure, or if your workplace offers little support, it can lead to emotional burnout. Here are 10 signs that your job might be making you depressed:
If these signs resonate with you, it’s time to ask yourself: Is this job worth your mental health?
If your job is making you miserable, the idea of changing it may feel overwhelming. You might find yourself thinking:
But this is just your negative self-talk trying to keep you in a place that’s not serving you. Instead, ask yourself:
It can be hard to see a way out when you’re in the thick of work-related depression. But you’re not alone. Many others have been where you are and found a way to turn things around. Here’s a real story of someone who struggled with their job and found relief through a career change.
“I had been in the same job for five years, and the stress of meeting targets had completely burned me out. I dreaded going to work every day and started calling in sick more often than I wanted to admit. I realised something had to change when my doctor diagnosed me with anxiety and depression. That’s when I reached out for help and started working with a career counsellor. Within a few months, I found a new job that aligned with my values—and I finally felt like myself again.”
You don’t have to face this alone. See how Career Coaching can help you find a path forward.
Looking for a fresh start? Explore outplacement services designed to support you through change.
If you’re currently struggling with depression, you need to find effective ways to cope—especially on your worst days. Here are some strategies to help:
Looking for a fresh start? Explore outplacement services designed to support you through change.
Find out more about professional support and how it can help you navigate tough times.
Feeling stuck in a job that’s making you miserable? It’s time to take control of your mental health and career. At Career Consultants, we’re here to help you rediscover your passion, find a career that aligns with your values, and start living a happier, healthier life.
Don’t wait – get help through our Career Change Coaching.
Start your journey with our Career Programmes designed to help you rediscover your passion.
Feeling anxious? Learn how to manage it in our Always Anxious at Work article.
Explore ways to Reignite Your Passion For Work when things feel bleak
Are you feeling overwhelmed by work-related depression? It might be a sign that your current role isn’t right for you, or that a bold change in your career direction is needed.
Don’t keep it bottled up—we’re here to help you take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling work life.
Let’s explore how we can support you. Reach out today for expert guidance and compassionate care. Your well-being is our priority, and together, we can make the change you need.