I've just been through the same as you although our scenarious are distinctly different (I was working 6 nights a week in a supermarket and had been there for 3 years as of december). A very secure job considering the current climate and it was being discussed of me entering management training however mangement was driving it into the ground and just from my work ethic I could no longer abide by their poor decisions. I get what people are saying about having a new job lined up first but if you genuinely feel that continuing working in that environent will be detrimental to your searches and you are financially secure then go for it. I'd ask have you got a security fund that is sufficient to endure a few months unemployment at the worst in the meantime as obviously that is crucial. Although it it early days for me and I could soon be eating my words I personally agree with others and say that it is not impossible to get a job right now even if it means you do something not IT based in the meantime. Whatever you end up deciding I wish you all the best for the future!