WHen I was having panic and anxiety attacks, I quit working. I really thought I would feel better getting away from the pressures of work, having no certain time to get up, no deadlines, no meetings, etc. However, in MY case, I got worse. I had too much time on my hands to think about my anxiety and panic. I became housebound for 7 months. Literally did not go out of the house even to the front porch. At that point, I found a specialist, went inpatient for treatment, got the therapy and meds I needed, completed another degree and returned to work. I felt better keeping busy ! This is just MY situation, and everyone is different. Of course during my time off from work, I did have the opportunity to get more help than while I was working, so it did have that benefit.

You state you have been in therapy for the anxiety and depression , are you taking medication also? I agree with JMO's post, if you havent already done so, educate yourself about anxiety disorders and depression.

Having worked now for years with clients who have panic and anxiety disorders, it is often very hard to discern if work is actually the cause of ones anxiety without taking a break to see if you feel better. However, like you state, the thought of going back to work could actually increase your anxiety. IMHO, perhaps a 2 week vacation, might let you know as much as a 6-8 week leave. If after 2 weeks, you have a marked decrease in your anxiety and depression , you have your answer, and I would seriously consider a job change, however, if after 2 weeks, you don't notice a difference in how you feel, it might indicate that your job is not the cause.

Good luck with your decision, and in dealing with your anxiety/depression !