This whole thread, and your comment in particular, resonates. At the very least, knowing this might be the unspoken norm, rather than a personal challenge, that alone helps a ton.
Yeah I will say that this thread has been very validating as I haven't found anyone in my peer group who (at least admits to) feeling the same. What's the cure here? Obviously we could all use some therapy and/or meditation, but then what? To me it seems like we'd still be stuck in the same trap, just with better coping mechanisms.
I saw a CBT Therapist for depression and anxiety issues. That helped.
I now guard my mental health like the crown jewels. I have to, because without it nothing else happens.
I HAVE to be careful - if I sense myself slipping then everything is at risk - relationships, my job, everything...
So I'm glad it helped!
We are not alone - there are more of us than we realise I think! :-)
It's a certain kind of cruelty to keep people locked in offices for over 8 hours a day under constant scrutiny.