Do You Recognize These 5 Signs Your Job Is Toxic For Your Mental Health?

“How do I know I’m in a toxic job?”

This is one of the most common questions I am asked as a career coach.

Toxic workplaces are regrettably common. More job seekers than I can count have come to me while in toxic workplaces. Also, I have personally been in more than a few toxic ones.

It can be challenging to take care of your mental health when you are in an unsupportive workplace. The first step to protecting your mental health is recognizing you are in a toxic job.

Here are five signs you may be in a toxic job that is bad for your mental health:

1. You feel burned out.

Although employers are not always to blame, burnout can often be a sign of an unhealthy workplace. Begin by reflecting on the expectations your boss set. Are they reasonable or are you set up for job burnout? If you are feeling burned out, consider if your current employer is best for your mental health.

2. Your boundaries are ignored.

Healthy boundaries are critical to success in the workplace. This is particularly true for those of us living with mental health challenges as healthy boundaries can enable our recovery. Ask yourself how well your current employer respects your boundaries. Lack of respect for boundaries is often an indicator of a toxic workplace.

3. Your manager is unsupportive of your mental health.

Speaking of boundaries, your manager can make or break your job. Take time to examine your relationship with your boss. A supportive manager can greatly support your mental health and well-being. On the other hand, a poor manager can result in unnecessary workplace stress and anxiety.

4. Your mental health is an afterthought.

While every organization approaches mental health differently, you deserve an employer that respects your unique needs. You also deserve an organization that prioritizes mental health. If your employer treats your mental health and well-being as an afterthought, you may want to look for a new job.

5. You don’t feel a sense of belonging.

Finally, reflect on how you feel when at work. There is often a relationship between my coaching clients who report a sense of belonging in their current role and those who feel happy. Conversely, my clients who feel unwelcome often report feelings of unhappiness. Think about whether you want to stick around at a company where you feel unwelcome.

Now, these are just a few signs of a toxic workplace. If you identify you are in a workplace that is bad for your mental health, ask yourself if this is the time to search for a new job.

Remember that you deserve a career and a life you love. The right job and employer are out there. You’ve got this!