Workplace Bullying

As the title suggests, workplace bullying is the constant harassment in the workplace targetted at one or a group of people. This may include physical abuse, verbal abuse as well as psychological bullying and sexual harassment.

While it may just seem fun for the perpetrator(s), it takes a huge toll on the victims of bullying as it creates a hostile work environment where the latter do not feel safe and productive at their workplace.

Bullying behaviour must not be mistaken with criticisms. While both may have include negative feedback, bullying targets more personal, work-unrelated comments passed about in the work environment.

Bullying affects the victims’ drive to work, reducing their productivity and develop thoughts of leaving their job. In some cases, being bullied at work can also affect your physical health such as having trouble getting quality sleep, frequent headaches, decreased appetite and feeling anxious before work or when thinking about work.

Some signs that you may be being bullied or harassed includes:

• Verbal: Mockery, humiliation, jokes, gossip or other forms of spoken abuse.
• Intimidation: Social exclusion in the workplace, threats or invasion of privacy.
• Related to work performance: Sabotage of work, stealing or taking credit for ideas.
• Institutional: When a workplace allows, or even encourages bullying. This may produce unrealistic goals, forced overtime or identifying those who can’t keep up.
• Retaliation: In some cases, reporting the bully can cause accusations of lying, more exclusion and denied promotions.

The bottom line is, bullying and harassment sacrifice your overall health and safety. It is important to feel wanted, positive and respected in the workplace in order to have a fulfilling work experience.

If you have been bullied or have been witnessing bullying in your workplace, it is crucial to lodge a formal complaint or Human Resources or your manager. While that is the ideal scenario, we understand it may be difficult to highlight the abusive conduct as it may lead to collateral damage. That is why, here at Nuffield Wellness, we aim to be your listening ear and help you through these tough times. Our door is always open for victims who would just like to seek help outside of their work. Book an appointment and see our professional counsellor whenever you need it.