Today I quit my 9-5 to work 10 hours a week.

[AEP123]

Its something I’ve considered for a long time. My mental health is in ruins, I am constantly stressed, constantly on edge, depressed, anxious and always having panic attacks. I don’t sleep well, I have two young children and with work, cooking, cleaning, and my poor MH its all too much for me now.

A job came up working 2 hours a day. Works around school and it term time only. I went for it. I got it. I am worried as I’m taking such a huge pay cut. But I also feel like this is the thing that’s going to help me refresh.

we’re lucky that DH wage covers all of our bills, anything i earn is just surplus or fun money.

I just need to get back to a place where I am not constantly filled with worry and panic. I can’t remember the last time I was genuinely looking forward to the future. I’m hoping that’s about to change.

Congratulations on your new job op and well done for doing something positive for your mh!

Wow I could have written this!!
I am in a very similar situation except I didn’t “decide” to quit my job but suffered a burnout just before last summer (tbh it sounds like you are not too far off too). I would love to go back to my old job but also discovered through therapy that maybe I need to switch gears and look for another job, preferably max 4-5 hrs day as the normal 8-1700 appears impossible for me at the moment (due to different health issues but mainly mental health). My youngest will start school after the Christmas holidays which is so bittersweet but I also look forward to a new chapter and a new type of job that suits my current energy level.
Incredibly lucky to have a DH who doesn’t mind working ft and we’re content with our small but cozy home.

Sounds like a very good change for you too, OP. Channces are you would otherwise completely burn out and it takes longer to recover… I have had weekly sessions with a psychologist for months now and I’m only just learning that I should try to create a life that fits me instead of a “me” that fits my life.
Good luck with your journey 🍀

@AEP123 congratulations on your job :)

I work in a primary school and term time and it's so nice ...

You may have took a pay hit BUT you can't put money on your mental health and you will also learnt to live on your new wage :) x

If you can afford it then fair enough - just make sure your pension is protected.