1 pqe here working in a rather niche area, generally find work manageable and career progression seems relatively clear-cut: 1 -3 years jump to big 4 / int'l firm, 5-7 years decide to go in-house or not.

but work despite being manageable is completely draining- at this point it feels like i'm having a complete split in psyche every time i walk into the office and by the time im get home i just feel completely hollow.

i've grown apart from all my friends and all interest in hobbies has faded. on the other hand there's a voice in my head on repeat pointing out how lazy i'm being, how good i have it compared to peers and therefore have no right to feel this overwhelmed and miserable.

...it just hasn't been a great year