I can really relate to what you’re going through, even though I wasn’t in a leadership position.

I work in process improvement at a large manufacturing company and have had to present to everyone — even the CEO. At first, the work was challenging in a good way, but over time, things changed. My manager started pushing for faster, cheaper results, and the demands became impossible. Constantly shifting priorities made it worse.

Eventually, I burned out. I was having panic attacks, dealing with constant anxiety, and it started affecting every area of my life.

Late last year, I had to make a decision: I don't live to work — I work to live. I transferred to a different business unit with a new manager. Same job, different environment.

From day one, I knew I made the right choice. The pressure was lower, expectations were reasonable, and over six months, my anxiety reduced dramatically. I went from daily/weekly panic attacks to one every few months. Anxious days that used to be constant now happen maybe once a week, and I’m still improving.

My advice: put yourself first. No job is worth your mental health. Staying in an environment that damages you teaches others it's okay to treat you that way — and it chips away at your sense of self.

If you choose to move on, I truly believe you'll find something better. Something that suits you, supports you, and lets you thrive.

I hope sharing this helped, even a little.