Public accounting made me stop getting a period

The Hidden Costs of Public Accounting: My Journey to Recognizing Stress and Its Effects

After five years in the public Accounting sector, I find myself at a pivotal moment, as I prepare for a potential promotion to manager this year. However, the demanding hours and relentless stress of the busy season have taken a toll on my well-being in unexpected ways.

Recently, I experienced a significant health issue: I stopped getting my period. After taking eight pregnancy tests—each one returning negative—I realized that my body was reacting to the high levels of stress I’ve been under. My Oura Ring, a tool I use to monitor my health, confirms what I already feel; it indicates that I’m experiencing heightened stress levels daily, surpassing what is considered normal.

As I reflect on this situation, I can’t help but feel a mix of disbelief and frustration. It seems almost absurd that such extreme work hours are treated as the norm within our industry. Often, I catch myself feeling guilty for voicing my concerns, thinking that perhaps I’m being unreasonable since so many of my colleagues are enduring the same grueling schedules.

What strikes me the most is the prevailing misconception in public Accounting: that wishing for a healthy work-life balance equates to a lack of dedication or work ethic. Why is it that prioritizing time for oneself is often viewed negatively?

In sharing my story, I hope to shed light on the often-unspoken challenges that come with a career in public accounting. It’s essential to recognize that while hard work is vital, achieving balance and taking care of our mental and physical health is equally important. As I continue to navigate this industry, I remain committed to advocating for a workplace where well-being is prioritized alongside productivity.

Let’s start a conversation about the impacts of stress in our careers and the importance of supporting one another in maintaining our health. If you’ve experienced similar challenges, know that you’re not alone. Together, we can work toward changing the narrative around work-life balance in public accounting.