Bullying in the Workplace: Recognizing, Addressing, and Preventing it
Workplace Bullying and Mental Health: Support from Rooted Counselling Services in Calgary, AB.
Workplace bullying is a difficult and often painful experience that can deeply impact your mental health, self-esteem, confidence, and sense of belonging. Unlike childhood bullying, workplace bullying is often more subtle, making it harder to recognize and address. At Rooted Counselling Services in Calgary, we help clients navigate the emotional toll of toxic work environments and rebuild confidence through evidence-based therapy.
What is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying involves repeated behaviours that hurt or undermine someone. It can take many forms, including harsh or demeaning words such as persistent criticism, belittling, or yelling. It may also involve social exclusion or making someone feel unwelcome, unfairly overloading or withholding work, undermining a colleague’s efforts or confidence, or spreading rumors and misinformation.
The Human Impact of Workplace Bullying Workplace
Bullying can be incredibly distressing, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and self-doubt. It often results in a decline in motivation and job satisfaction, causing feelings of isolation and frustration. Employees subjected to bullying may also experience higher absenteeism and, in some cases, may leave their jobs altogether. For organizations, a negative workplace culture can reduce morale, increase conflict, and lead to lost productivity.
How to Recognize Workplace Bullying Bullying
This isn’t always obvious, but there are some signs to watch for. If you find yourself feeling anxious or uneasy before work due to interactions with a specific colleague, supervisor, or manager, it may be a sign of bullying. A persistent pattern of being treated unfairly or excluded from important conversations can also indicate a problem. Receiving overly harsh criticism or being micromanaged without justification are additional red flags.
What You Can Do if You Experience or Witness Workplace Bullying
If you or someone you know is experiencing workplace bullying, remember that you are not alone. One of the first steps to take is to keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and details, to provide clarity and evidence if needed. Seeking support from a trusted colleague, mentor, or HR representative can provide reassurance and guidance. If you feel comfortable, addressing the issue directly with the person involved in a calm, professional manner may help set boundaries and clarify misunderstandings. If the issue persists, reporting the behavior through your company’s formal procedures can help ensure accountability. Finally, prioritizing self-care is essential. Speaking with a counselor or therapist can provide valuable support during a challenging time.
Fostering a Positive and Respectful Workplace
Creating a safe and welcoming work environment takes a collective effort. Organizations can help by clearly defining and enforcing respectful workplace policies. Offering training on communication and conflict resolution can empower employees to handle workplace issues more effectively. Encouraging kindness, empathy, and teamwork fosters a culture of mutual respect. Providing safe spaces for open conversations about workplace concerns can also ensure that employees feel heard and supported.
Workplace bullying is a challenge, but by addressing it with awareness, empathy, and action, we can build workplaces where respect and kindness are the norm. Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported in their professional environment, and together, we can create that change.
At Rooted Counselling Services in Calgary, AB, we’re here to help you cope with workplace stress and bullying through individual therapy.
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