[SINGAPORE] A Singaporean worker, overwhelmed by job stress and mental exhaustion, recently took to social media to describe how his demanding role has pushed him to the edge, sparking anxiety just at the thought of going to work.
“I started to develop anxiety even to go to work. It’s almost like I don’t even have time to breathe once I step into the office,” he revealed in a post on the r/askSingapore forum. He explained that over the past few months, several colleagues have resigned, and with no replacements hired, the remaining staff have been burdened with extra duties.
“I am very tempted to just quit and look for a new job because it’s taking a toll on my mental health (overbearing colleagues and horrible management),” he wrote. “Given the job market in Singapore, am I even making a sane decision?”
Adding to his distress, some coworkers dismissed his concerns and branded him as ‘fragile,’ leading him to question his own feelings. “Am I being fragile, as my colleagues once said?” he asked the online community.
Workplace burnout is a well-known issue in Singapore, where long hours and high job expectations are often considered the norm. A recent survey by a local employment agency found that over 60% of Singaporean workers reported experiencing burnout at least once in the past year. The study attributed this largely to poor work-life balance and the relentless pressure to perform.
“Trust your gut instinct, and if you need to quit, do it.”
The post resonated with many Reddit users from Singapore, who responded with messages of support, encouragement, and personal stories of how toxic work environments affected their own mental and physical health.
One Redditor urged the worker not to internalise the negative labels he had received.
“No, you are not weak or fragile,” they wrote. “Please don’t let people or yourself gaslight how you feel. Burnout affects your body too, not just your mind. I’ve experienced recurring pain since burning out at my last job. The pain worsens whenever my workload becomes overwhelming. Listen to your body. I know quitting is a privilege, but if you can’t leave immediately, start setting boundaries to protect yourself.”
The Singapore government has also recognised the problem of workplace stress. In 2022, the Ministry of Manpower introduced initiatives to promote mental health at work, including guidelines encouraging employers to foster supportive environments and providing employees with access to resources. However, shifting the deeply entrenched workplace culture remains a long-term challenge, requiring policy reforms alongside societal mindset changes.
Another commenter echoed these sentiments, stating, “No! You’re not being fragile. Singaporeans often pride themselves on enduring stressful jobs as if it’s a badge of honour, which is toxic. I’ve been in your shoes, and anxiety’s effects linger for years. Healing takes time, especially after prolonged stress. Health is wealth.”
A third user shared, “I had a job that triggered such severe anxiety that I’d throw up from exhaustion after clocking out. Trust your gut instinct, and if quitting is what you need, do it.”
Experts recommend open communication as a key approach to combating workplace burnout. Employers should encourage employees to express concerns without fear of retaliation. Flexible working arrangements—such as remote work and adjustable hours—can also ease the strain from long commutes and rigid schedules.
Some advised the troubled worker to begin searching for a new job while still employed, providing financial stability and a smoother transition when the time comes.
Understanding Workplace Anxiety
Medical professionals note that workplace anxiety can manifest in various ways, including persistent worry, dread, and a feeling of being trapped with no clear escape. Other symptoms include tension, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and paranoia.
As stress intensifies, physical symptoms may emerge, such as muscle tightness, fatigue, or panic attacks.
If these signs sound familiar, it may be time to pause and seek support. In Singapore, resources are available: the Samaritans of Singapore can be reached 24/7 at 1-767, the Institute of Mental Health at 6389-2222, and online support is offered via Mindline.sg. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone—help is always within reach.
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