AN1. I feel like I’m mostly operating on autopilot and I don’t have time to take in the conversations or context of the work or deal. Now 1 yr in I have uncontrollable anxiety to the point I can’t seem to sleep at all or focus on my work anymore. I feel so lost and don’t understand most of what is going on what do I do. I feel I have no choice but to quit but would I ruin my career ?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation is unfortunately not uncommon among analysts in high-pressure roles like Rx. Here are some key insights and actionable steps to consider:
Mental Health Comes First: Many WSO threads emphasize that no job is worth sacrificing your mental health. If your anxiety is so severe that it’s affecting your sleep, focus, and overall well-being, it’s crucial to address this immediately. Chronic stress can lead to long-term health issues, and taking care of yourself should be your top priority.
Quitting Without a Job Lined Up: While quitting without a backup plan can feel risky, several WSO users have shared that it’s better to leave a toxic or unsustainable situation than to let it break you. However, before making this decision:
Networking and Job Search While Employed: If possible, try to start networking and exploring other opportunities while still in your current role. Many WSO users recommend this approach to avoid a resume gap and to maintain momentum in your career. Even if you’re struggling, putting in minimal effort to stay employed while you search can be beneficial.
Reassess Your Career Goals: It’s okay to realize that your “dream job” isn’t what you expected. Many analysts have pivoted to roles with better work-life balance, such as corporate development, private equity, or even non-finance roles. Reflect on what aspects of your current role you dislike and what you’d prefer in your next position.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted friends, family, or even a therapist to discuss your feelings. Many WSO users have found that talking to others helps them gain perspective and make more informed decisions.
Practical Tips to Cope in the Short Term:
Ultimately, whether you decide to quit now or stick it out while searching for a new role, the key is to prioritize your mental health and long-term happiness. If you feel completely overwhelmed, leaving might be the best option, but try to have a plan in place to ease the transition.
Firstly try cutting down on caffeine/nicotine. That alone reduced my anxiety by 80+%
1) Take a week off ASAP. Be blunt with your staffer and say you need this time off. Get the hell out of whatever city you are in and do something you enjoy (ideally be on your phone as little as possible).
2) Start meditating daily. It’s tough but you don’t need a long one, try doing it for 5 mins then work up to 15. You’ll find that a lot of the time your anxiety can be dramatically reduced by having a good grip on your self-talk / thoughts not becoming debilitating.
3) Cliche, but try and exercise 2-3 times per week. 1 lifting session, 1 pure cardio, 1 circuit training day. You can definitely make it work Saturday, Sunday, Monday morning. Helped me a lot.
And finally, do your absolute best to not let this job kill your spirit or make you jaded. I’ve seen too many people completely change and become bitter by the end of their analyst stint. If you want to talk (as someone who has kind of gone though this, let me know).
Stay strong.
Simple things I can’t do anymore and I reread the same sentences over 2-4 times and still don’t get it. I feel like I need to quit to save my health as I’m getting crazy insomnia. worried I’m ruining my career forever.
Have you always had these types of thoughts / feelings (even slightly)? Or is it purely brought on by the job?
Working out a few times a week will help a ton, really good thing to add.
Would also recommend reading a stoicism style book or two, may be helpful with anxiety.
isn't there the option for some kind of mental health / medical unpaid leave without leaving the firm?
Am a slight insomniac myself and can attest that not sleeping regularly really fucks with your mind. Here are some things I would recommend for sleep
1) If you're into it, weed is easily the most effective sleep aid I've ever tried. I also just like being high though - may not be the best if you're already anxious
2) No caffeine after lunch. Caffeine has a half life of 4-5 hours, so afternoon coffees/energy drinks can really keep you up even if you no longer think you "feel" the caffeine.
3) Try going for a quick run at night if you can find time. All you need is 10-20 minutes and you can go 2 miles. Good for clearing your mind and will naturally make you more tired.
4) None of these have ever worked super well for me, but I would try more common sleep aids if you can - magnesium supplements, melatonin, chamomile tea, etc. These are all mostly natural too
Did you ever get through it? My anxiety is off and on, and sometimes it’s horrendous.
Stress comes from people (colleagues), panic comes from lack of preparation (procrastination) and anxiety comes from insecurity (overthinking)
Which is why sociopaths never stress or feel anxious. Cause they think they are the best and don't give a fuck about what people think
If you feel like you can no longer manage the anxiety and lack of sleep on your own, try seeing a therapist before making any major decisions. In New York, there are excellent online services like Manhattan Mental Health Counseling — they work with most insurance plans and can help you find a therapist who fits your pace and needs.
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