A significant aspect of the relationships we form are made at the workplace. Although some may not consider them significant enough, the type of association we engage with at work can have a tremendous effect on our mental health. For example, a work environment characterised by verbal abuse, disrespect, bullying etc., will negatively affect the mental health of workers within that environment.
Verbal Abuse at the Workplace
Exposure to verbal abuse at work can have a negative effect on one’s self-esteem. Verbal abuse at work can come in form of derogatory remarks, mockery, ‘polite insults’, teasing, etc. In today’s world, we hide a lot of verbal abuse under the umbrella of ‘joke’. It doesn’t matter whether those dishing this out can take it; we should generally treat people with respect.
Gaslighting
Gaslighting at work happens when someone forces you to question the facts that you know to be true, yourself, and your ability to do your job. This can be to make you seem unproductive, insignificant, or to manipulate you. Gaslighting is terrible to the mental health of anyone and should have no place in a workplace.
Bullying
Workplace bullying is the number one cause of workplace mental health issues. Victims of bullying at work can suffer dire consequences. These can range from anxiety, depression, panic attacks, even to PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
What Is the Cost of These Behaviours to the Workplace?
Aside from the negative influence on the individuals, negative behaviours at work will cost the organisation in the long run should they do nothing to fix it. The most immediate cost is loss in productivity. Secondly, the organisation’s reputation will suffer greatly which would influence its economical outlook. Furthermore, employee turnover will increase. This would mean the resources spent on training employees are not enjoyed in the long run. These are sufficient reasons to foster a favourable mental health environment at work.