Gen Z employee quits after manager rejects anxiety leave request, viral WhatsApp chat divides internet

A WhatsApp conversation between an employee and his manager has sparked debate on LinkedIn after screenshots showed the employee resigning immediately when his request for leave due to anxiety was rejected.

According to the screenshots, the employee informed his manager at around 11.40 am that he would not be able to attend work because he was experiencing anxiety and "did not feel like getting out of bed." The manager declined the request, describing it as "very unprofessional" and noting that the employee had informed him after office hours had already begun.

Employee resigns after leave request is denied

The exchange escalated when the employee resigned via WhatsApp, stating that he could no longer continue working.


The manager responded by warning that leaving without following due process could affect the employee's full-and-final settlement (FNF) and experience letter. He also said the employee would be marked as absconding unless he reported to the office to resolve the matter.

The employee replied that he was done and would not return to "a place where people threaten their teammates."

LinkedIn users debate empathy and workplace communication

As the screenshots circulated on LinkedIn, users expressed differing opinions on the incident.

Several commenters argued that the issue was not about generational differences but about empathy and communication in the workplace. One user wrote, "The conversation isn't about Gen Z. It's about whether organizations want compliance or honest communication. Every generation values respect. Gen Z is just more willing to leave when it isn't there."

Some users say both employee and manager share responsibility

Others believed both parties were responsible for how the situation unfolded.

One LinkedIn user said the incident reflected "lack of empathy and responsibilities from both sides," adding that while mental health should be treated with understanding, informing an employer hours after the workday had started was also unprofessional.

Several commenters echoed that view, arguing that the timing of the leave request was the primary concern.

One user wrote that informing an employer at 11.40 am for a 9 am workday would be considered unprofessional regardless of whether the reason was a broken leg or anxiety. The commenter compared the situation to a service professional cancelling an appointment hours after it was scheduled and questioned whether customers would accept the explanation.

Mental health should not replace professional responsibility

Some users cautioned against using anxiety to justify poor workplace etiquette.

A mental health advocate commented that empathy should work both ways, adding that employees also need to maintain professional ethics and basic manners. The commenter acknowledged that anxiety is real but said it should not be confused with entitlement.

Others criticise manager's response and workplace culture

Another section of LinkedIn users criticised the manager's handling of the situation, describing it as an example of a toxic workplace culture.

One commenter said the exchange reflected the culture of legacy service firms, alleging that employees were treated as replaceable while being expected to remain loyal.

Another user argued that organisations that prioritise employees and customers over rigid workplace practices would be better positioned for the future.