Should I Put My Job Before My Mental Health?

Let’s talk about preventing burnout

Work is an essential part of life, it pays the bills, provides purpose, and even brings a sense of fulfilment. But what happens when your job starts to take a toll on your mental health? In a world that often glorifies hustle culture and “going the extra mile,” it’s easy to feel like prioritising yourself means falling behind. 

But let’s be real—at what cost? Burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion are real consequences of pushing yourself too hard for too long. So, should you put your job before your mental health? The short answer: No. But let’s talk about why, and what you can do if you feel stuck in a job that’s impacting your well-being. 

 

The Pressure to Prioritise Work Over Well-Being

 

Many of us have grown up believing that hard work equals success. And while dedication and ambition are valuable, the pressure to put your job above everything else—including your mental health—can be harmful. 

 

Here’s why so many people struggle to put themselves first when work is demanding: 

  • Hustle Culture: We’re constantly told that if we work harder, longer, and sacrifice more, success will follow. 
  • Fear of Falling Behind: You might worry that taking a break or setting boundaries will make you seem unmotivated or replaceable. 
  • Guilt: The idea that struggling at work means you’re “not strong enough” or “not committed enough” can be difficult to shake. 
  • Financial Pressure: Let’s be honest—sometimes we feel like we don’t have a choice, especially if our job is our main source of financial security.

 

Signs Your Job Is Negatively Impacting Your Mental Health

 

It’s normal to have stressful days at work, but if your job is consistently affecting your well-being, it might be time to reassess. Here are some red flags: 

  • You wake up dreading the workday, even on weekends or holidays. 
  • You feel emotionally drained, exhausted, or on edge all the time. 
  • Work stress is interfering with your sleep, relationships, or overall happiness. 
  • You’re experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, or a sense of hopelessness related to work. 
  • You find it hard to enjoy things outside of work because you’re constantly thinking about it. 

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth considering whether your job is taking more from you than it’s giving. 

 

When Should You Prioritise Mental Health Over Work?

 

There’s a difference between handling normal work stress and enduring a job that’s damaging your mental health. If your workplace is making you sick, miserable, or disconnected from your life, it’s time to put yourself first. 

 

Prioritising your mental health might look like: 

  • Taking a mental health day (or several) to recharge. 
  • Setting boundaries around work hours and availability. 
  • Seeking professional support to help you navigate work-related stress. 
  • Reassessing whether your job aligns with your values and well-being. 
  • Exploring new opportunities if your current role is no longer sustainable.

 

“I Thought I Had to Push Through” – A MHM Community Story

 

For some, the realisation that work isn’t everything comes after hitting a breaking point. 

“I used to think that pushing through stress and exhaustion was part of being a good employee. I worked overtime, skipped breaks, and told myself I’d rest ‘when things calmed down.’ But they never did. I ended up burning out so badly that I had to take extended leave. It took that wake-up call for me to realise—my job could replace me in a heartbeat, but I couldn’t replace my health. Now, I set boundaries and remind myself that my well-being matters just as much as my work.” – Anonymous, MHM Community Member

 

How to Put Your Mental Health First Without Jeopardising Your Job

 

If you’re worried about how to balance your mental health with work, here are some ways to advocate for yourself while still maintaining your professional responsibilities: 

  • Set Clear Boundaries: Define work hours, limit overtime, and resist the urge to be constantly available. 
  • Take Breaks Seriously: A five-minute breather, a lunch away from your desk—these moments help reset your mind. 
  • Talk to Someone: Whether it’s a manager, HR, or a mental health professional, support is available. 
  • Explore Workplace Support Options: Some workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) with free counselling and resources. 
  • Consider Your Long-Term Goals: If your current job is unsustainable, start thinking about alternatives that align better with your well-being.

 

Your Job Can Wait—Your Mental Health Can’t

 

At the end of the day, no job is worth sacrificing your mental health. Burnout isn’t a badge of honour, and needing rest doesn’t mean you’re weak. If your job is making you miserable, it’s okay to take a step back, set boundaries, or even consider a change. 

Remember: You are more than your productivity. Your well-being is not optional. Prioritising yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. 

 

What steps can you take today to protect your mental health at work? 

 

Resources: 

https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/stress/burnout-prevention-and-recovery

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/work/burnout

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/work

https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/black-dog-institute-mental-health-toolkit-2017.pdf

https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/mental-health-at-work/