Hi Antares,
I have read your message a couple times and was going to post and then I thought...I had to leave work to manage my depression, how can I help? Even though I had to leave my high stress job, maybe I can let you know what I think might have helped me.
In retrospect I can see that if I were to do it again:
1) I would set clear boundries about the amount of work I would do.
- I did not take care of myself. I gave everything I had to the company I worked for. When things got more stressful, I worked harder and longer hours (sometimes 16 hrs straight)...then I completely burned out to the point where I would sleep ALL weekend and still be exhausted when I returned to work on Monday.
2) I would recognize that I am one person. I cannot do everything. The world will not collapse if I don't do more, or work harder, or stay longer.
3) I would understand that while work is important, your health is more important...without it you cannot work.
4) I would set a specific time to leave and arrive at work each day....and stick to it. Realizing that the things I do outside work (fun, family, friends) are what keep me healthy.
5) I would work in a job I love, not in a job that offers just monetary rewards, or the possibility of a prestigious position. I would work in a job where I made a difference to other people's lives (sounds like you are doing this).
6) I would make sure I took my breaks...ALL of them...and go for a walk, or get some exercise/fresh air. Get away from all the stress if only for 10-15 minutes.
Please take care of you first...then you will be able to take care of the others.
...Aqua
