Lilian Weng's Quick Exit and Return: A Job-Leaving Lesson

"You always want to protect your flexibility," Akubuiro said. "Give yourself continued options."

An explanation made in private can surface later and create perception issues. Richard R. Smith, director of the Human Capital Development Lab at Johns Hopkins University's Carey Business School, said a person's rationale could be shared during a reference check, or word could spread naturally since professional networks are often tight, especially in certain industries. The explanation also might not be relayed as the person intended.

Some people decide "it's just not worth the risk" to provide honest feedback, Smith said.

The fallout may not be limited to the person leaving. Publicly citing mental-health concerns can damage perceptions of the former employer's culture, whether or not that impression is fair, said Riccards. It could also prompt board members or investors to question decisions that person made before leaving, he added, especially for someone in a high-level position.

"It puts your former company in a difficult position because people do start asking questions," Riccards said.

For the average employee, a manager or HR rep is typically the only person you need to tell you've decided to quit – and even then, you generally owe little more than notice and a professional goodbye.

"Nobody has to declare why they're leaving a job," said Riccards. "You certainly don't have to go to social media and broadcast why."

The safest approach is usually to keep a departure announcement simple. Say you're leaving, thank the organization and your colleagues, and perhaps mention a few highlights from your time there.

If you have a yen to post on social media anything personal about your exit, ask yourself what a public explanation would accomplish that private conversations could not, said Akubuiro. Just about anything shared online can remain searchable for years and may be read by future employers.

"Write the version you'd be fine with a hiring manager reading," Akubuiro said.

Should you decide to go ahead and put up a post, consider waiting a few days first, especially if you're feeling emotional. Perlut said a cooling-off period can help you judge what still feels worth sharing. "Most people in the heat of the moment react poorly to stressful situations," he said.