Hi, John.
I vote for leaving the miserable, stress inducing job even though it offers insurance coverage. Yes, if you stay there you will have coverage, and you may likely need it because stress and misery in every work day for 8 hours equals excess adrenaline constantly coursing through your system, chronic insomnia, ulcers, stomach problems, headache, and just plain unhappiness. If you are able to go somewhere else, you are already lucky. Start with your first paycheque (and every paycheque) put aside a percentage of your salary, or however much you can afford, and quickly establish your emergency fund. This will be your own health insurance coverage. If your bank offers special interest rate accounts or growth plans, put your money into that, but make sure it does NOT lock you in. Make certain you can access your money, in any amount, at any time if you need it fast. Keep putting money in. Do not tell anyone you have it, and they won't ask to borrow it. Do not touch it for anything unless you are faced with a life / health / or safety emergency. Very soon you will see this bank account grow and you will feel safe again. If you make the leap, I hope the new job works out and it makes you happy and peaceful.