Workplace Bullying: Anxiety, PTSD, and Other Mental Health Implications

Workplace bullying is a pervasive issue. A recent survey of 2,000 UK employees reported that a staggering 23% had encountered it during their careers. That's almost a quarter of the UK's workforce!

This issue can manifest in various ways, including verbal abuse, intimidation, social exclusion, and excessive criticism. Bullying in the workplace also fosters a hostile environment, which can affect productivity, innovation, and the ability to grow and connect with colleagues. In this article we look at the possible reasons why some people bully, how it affects the mental health of victims, and why it’s important to be aware of protective policies and laws to protect yourself.

Why People Bully?    

We often associate bullying with schools or playgrounds, but, as many adults may discover over the course of their lives, it's not confined to those settings. Workplace bullying is a distressing reality that can happen to anyone, and understanding the reasons why people engage in such behaviour is complex and multifaceted. 

There are several common reasons why people may resort to bullying in the workplace. First, it can stem from a desire for power and control. Bullies may perceive dominance over others to assert their authority or protect their position within the organisation. Additionally, personal insecurity or jealousy may sometimes drive workplace bullying. Envious individuals might target coworkers who excel or receive recognition, attempting to diminish their accomplishments or break their confidence. 

Stress and frustration can also trigger bullying behaviours. In high-pressure work environments, employees may take out their frustrations on colleagues, resorting to aggression as an outlet for their own problems. In some cases, a lack of empathy or understanding can be a contributing factor towards bullying. In these instances, some individuals may struggle to relate to their coworkers' feelings and experiences, making it easier for them to engage in hurtful or dismissive behaviour. 

Sometimes, workplace bullying may be a learned behaviour. Individuals who have experienced bullying themselves may perpetuate the cycle by replicating these behaviours in future workspaces. They may reach a point where they see this behaviour as the norm and become desensitised to it – not recognising how new colleagues are being impacted. Lastly, organisational culture can play a big role in the occurrence of bullying. Environments that tolerate or even reward aggressive or overly-competitive behaviour can inadvertently foster bullying behaviours and attitudes – normalising it instead of challenging it.

How does Workplace Bullying Affect Mental Health? 

Workplace bullying can have severe and long-lasting effects on an individual's mental health. It can, in some cases, lead to a range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Anxiety is a common consequence of workplace bullying. Constant fear of the bully's actions or comments can lead to heightened stress levels, insomnia, and a persistent state of unease. Victims may become hypervigilant, anticipating the next instance of mistreatment, which further exacerbates their anxiety. 

Depression often accompanies workplace bullying, as victims may experience a continuous sense of helplessness, hopelessness, or despair. The relentless emotional and psychological abuse can slowly erode self-esteem and self-worth, leading to feelings of sadness and isolation. 

PTSD can also emerge from prolonged exposure to bullying. The ongoing trauma of being subjected to aggressive behaviour, threats, or intimidation can lead to intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and severe emotional distress. Victims may find it challenging to function in everyday life, as they continually relive their traumatic experiences or fear certain places or scenarios. 

Other mental health implications associated with workplace bullying include decreased self-confidence, self-doubt, and a loss of trust in colleagues and superiors. Victims may also develop psychosomatic symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and panic attacks due to the chronic stress and anxiety. In some cases, individuals who experience workplace bullying may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, to numb their emotional pain. This can further exacerbate their mental health issues.

Are There Laws Preventing Bullying in the Workplace? 

Laws on workplace bullying can vary from one jurisdiction to another. While some countries have specific legislation addressing this issue, many rely on general labour or employment laws to indirectly address workplace bullying. It’s important to be aware of the specific laws and regulations in your region and to understand your workplace's policies regarding bullying. Many companies have anti-bullying policies in place, outlining behaviours that are considered ‘unacceptable,’ and providing details of the necessary reporting procedures and consequences for offenders. These policies are designed to create safe and respectful workspaces. Some common policies that can help resolve or prevent bullying issues include clear definitions of bullying behaviour, avenues for reporting incidents, confidentiality protections for whistleblowers, and a well-defined process for investigating and addressing complaints. 

Reflections 

Workplace bullying is a prevalent issue that affects not only individuals but also their productivity, innovation, and the overall environment in which they work. It can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even substance abuse issues – affecting victims' wellbeing in and outside of work. Understanding the reasons behind bullying, the profound impact on victims' mental health, and the importance of protective policies and laws is crucial. While laws on workplace bullying may vary between different countries, being aware of your organisation's policies is essential for creating a safe and respectful work environment. That includes clear definitions of bullying behaviours, detailed reporting procedures, and confidentiality protections. Addressing workplace bullying is not just a legal obligation; it's a moral imperative to ensure a healthier and more harmonious workplace for all.

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