The recent tragedy outlines the importance of mental health. We will never truly know the reasons behind the tragedy. Assuming someone else is contemplating something similar AND the reasons involved their work life: It is not always as simple as "just leave and find a new job". This can take time and there are factors to the exiting process that are not in our control. Here is what is in our control:
RTO Exemption- I believe they may have put a deadline on this, however it is not hard to speak with a counselor who can write a note to allow you to work from home. I have felt how waking up 2 hours early to sit in rush hour for an hour, coming home late, etc.. can add so much stress. We are talking the suffocating feeling of daily dread...that feeling of physical sickness that arises Sunday afternoon knowing tomorrow it starts all over again. The insomnia that creeps in, wondering when the next round of layoffs is... The thought of "if I got in a car accident, I may be able to get out of work". It is rather easy to fix this. Medical WFH exemption.
FMLA medical leave- depression/anxiety are a valid reasons for leave. If you have been employed for a year, you are allowed paid medical time off. Again, you must see a counselor and get a note.
I wanted to throw out these options and give you permission to gift yourself these options should you need them. Use the rules in play for your benefit. Mental health issues can slowly grow without one realizing the severity. If this resonates with you, please remember these options. YOU have to advocate for yourself, because the company will not do this for you...though the rules allow you to do this for yourself.
I have seen coworkers who needed this do both...and it has dramatically helped their mental well being.