I have six a-levels, I have two degrees, I'm a registered healthcare professional. I worked for the NHS. I enjoyed the premise of helping people, I enjoyed interacting with patients.
But God, they overworked us. I was having panic attacks. I couldn't sleep through the night. I was in touch with the doctors for depression. I had been signed off with stress for weeks.
It got to the point where I was sat in my car in the early hours of the morning, sobbing and seriously thinking of taking my life and how I'd kissed my partner goodbye that morning and how I'd likely not get home.
That was a turning point for me. When I could think clearly I decided it wasn't worth it, and despite my family pressure to work a job like this and societal pressure to serve and the knowledge that the NHS is already understaffed, I decided I had to leave.
So I quit. And although I still have nightmares about being behind with my patients or people dying, I'm having more well rested days and I'm generally so much happier.
I registered as self employed. I have started drawing for money. Tbh I'm poorer money wise but I don't want to die anymore. And now I'm at home my partner and I are seriously considering getting a rescue dog.
Anyway, I'm sure a lot of you in this subreddit don't need telling but please don't work in a job that makes you suicidal.