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A Malaysian man's candid confession about quitting his high-paying job after being diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and panic attacks has gone viral
His post resonated deeply with many who've made similar life changes.
Posting under the tag #MDDSurvivor earlier this week, Mohd Zul shared that he walked away from his RM15,000-a-month job in the plantation sector earlier this year and now works mainly as a food delivery rider.
"My last paycheck was almost 15k, commission included. I decided to walk away right after I was diagnosed with MDD and panic attacks. Now I only do gig work. The income's super unstable, but honestly, I'm happy. I get to see my friends, spend time with my family, and play games whenever I want. I don't have to answer to my boss at 3am anymore or fake a smile at 8am meetings with fussy clients," he wrote.
"It's not perfect, but it feels lighter. I think I'm gonna be okay. I stopped taking my meds about a month ago, and for the first time in a while, I actually feel free."
His story has received over 1,000 likes, more than 130 replies, and at least 120 reposts and shares
It also sparked a wave of replies from Malaysians who shared their own journeys.
One user said he left the oil and gas industry and even turned down a job offer from ASEAN's most valuable energy brand for the sake of his mental health.
"I worked for a week and left again for the sake of my sanity. Most of my peers told me it was such a loss, but I know what I truly need. Plus I get to tell stories here on Threads about my rides, I enjoy it so much!"
Another commenter, who has been living with MDD since 2018, shared how she found peace after leaving the workforce.
"Although the last company let me go and left me depressed for 3 months, I overcame after I accepted the fact. Now I'm a homemaker who does freelance work and above all, a mom. I don't have the money I used to, but I've never felt this peace for so long."
In reply, Zul reflected, "At this point, we really understand what 'money isn't everything' means".
When asked if he plans to return to corporate life, he said he's focusing on his recovery for now, but "the possibility will always be there. A man can hope".
