Recognizing & Navigating Toxic Work Environments
Sometimes, you apply for the dream job, nail the interview, and land it. But despite all the hard work, it doesn’t quite feel like the dream job once you get there. In fact, you feel the opposite.
If that’s how you’re feeling take a deep breath & rest assured, you will be ok.
You don’t deserve to work in a toxic work environment. No one does.
The good news is, there are things you can take into your own hands to make a change. Below, we’ll break down what a toxic workplace looks like & what you can do to preserve your safety & wellbeing.
Let’s Talk About Hustle Culture
Hustle Culture is a mindset that emphasizes working hard and constantly striving for success. It may feel like there’s always something more to strive for: a promotion, a raise, a higher degree, or something else. It’s the rise-and-grind mentality that is further emphasized as tech & AI start replacing human roles.
There is a lot of debate about hustle culture generally, but one common criticism is that it sacrifices wellbeing in order to achieve professional success. Meanwhile, that “success” might not be all that it’s cracked up to be and tends to benefit the employer more than the employee.
Why is this relevant?
Sometimes, signs of a toxic work environment are camouflaged within hustle culture. That’s what we’re here to talk about.
What is a toxic work environment?
A toxic work environment is a workplace that allows for a culture of bullying, harassment, and ostracism that triggers a psychological strain on employees.
But work is stressful at times. So how do we recognize when our workplace is becoming toxic?
Red Flags
It is important to know the signs of a toxic work environment to protect your mental & physical wellbeing. Some warning signs that you might be working in a toxic environment are:
Bullying & Harassment - Any form of bullying, discrimination, or harassment—whether verbal, physical, or emotional—creates a toxic environment and should not be tolerated. Sometimes, bullying can be disguised as “office banter” however, it is never acceptable behavior in a work environment.
Ask yourself: Has your place of work made you feel victimized or objectified? Do you feel unsafe (physically or mentally) in the company of certain coworkers?
Disregard for Personal Boundaries - Well-intentioned folks sometimes cross boundaries and aren’t aware of it. However, if you set a clear boundary that is continually ignored & disrespected, this can be a sign of a toxic environment.
Blame Culture - A workplace where blame is often passed around instead of focusing on problem-solving and learning from mistakes can create a toxic atmosphere of fear and defensiveness.
High Turnover Rates: If many employees are leaving the company frequently, it could indicate underlying issues such as poor management or a toxic culture.
Ask Yourself: Why is your place of work always looking for employees? Are you working more than you signed on for?
Unrealistic Expectations or Goals: Constant pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines or achieve unattainable goals can lead to burnout and stress among employees.
Physical or Emotional Exhaustion: If employees frequently report feeling stressed, anxious, or emotionally drained due to work, it may be a sign of a toxic environment.
Threatening Behavior from Co-Workers - Behavior designed to manipulate, control, or instill fear in others, such as aggressive language, shouting, or constant belittling.
Feeling Unsafe - Finally, but most importantly, if you feel unsafe at work that is a sign of a toxic environment.
If You Feel Unsafe at Work
Feeling unsafe at work is a serious concern that should be addressed promptly. Here are some steps you can take to handle this situation:
Document Incidents: Keep a record of specific instances that made you feel unsafe. Note dates, times, individuals involved, and details of what happened.
Talk to HR or Management: Approach your Human Resources department or a trusted manager to discuss your concerns. Be clear and specific about the incidents that made you feel unsafe. They have a responsibility to address workplace safety issues.
Seek Support: If you're uncomfortable approaching HR or management directly, seek support from a colleague, a mentor, or someone you trust within the company. Sometimes, they might offer advice or accompany you when reporting the issue.
Consider Legal Counsel: If the situation persists without resolution and you believe your safety is compromised, consider seeking legal advice. Employment laws may protect you from retaliation for reporting unsafe conditions.
Self-care: While addressing the issue, prioritize your well-being. This might involve taking breaks, seeking counseling or therapy for emotional support, or taking time off if needed.
Explore External Resources: If internal avenues don't lead to a resolution or you feel uncomfortable reporting within the company, consider reaching out to external resources such as labor boards, unions (if applicable), or legal advisors specializing in employment issues.
The Impact of a Toxic Work Environment on Mental Health
Not shockingly, working in a toxic environment has a negative impact on our mental health. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General’s office found that “chronic stress from workplace abuse can lead to depression, heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses.” And they’re not the only ones. The World Health Organization conducted a case study on the relationship between the workplace and wellbeing. One participant cited that
“I loved my work but grew to hate it as I was working in a toxic environment. A lengthy and unpleasant matter at work was sending my mind reeling into panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. My doctor said I had moderate to severe depression. I was unable to function at work for days at a time.”
How to Cope & Take Care of Yourself
We’d love to say that it’s as easy as getting up and walking out. However, that isn’t always an option for us as we need an income to survive. Below are tips on navigating a toxic work environment. However, if you feel that your safety is in danger, please seek help immediately.
Start looking for an employer who supports mental health & wellbeing if yours does not take action or consider your requests seriously.
Stay focused on your personal goals & what you need to feel fulfilled, happy, and safe at the end of the day.
Set boundaries with your coworkers. If they cross a boundary, let them know.
Take your lunch break outside of work.
Keep trustworthy co-workers close.
Talk to someone - Therapy can provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings, process the experiences that have made you feel unsafe, and help you develop coping strategies to manage the stress or anxiety these situations may cause. Seeking therapy doesn’t mean the situation at work is your fault; rather, it’s a proactive step toward taking care of yourself and finding ways to navigate a difficult situation. Therapists can:
Help you navigate the emotions and stress that come with feeling unsafe at work. They can provide validation, support, and guidance.
Equip you with coping mechanisms and techniques to manage stress, anxiety, or any other emotional responses triggered by your work environment.
Assist you in assessing your options, understanding your rights, and deciding on the best course of action regarding your work situation.
Regain a sense of control and empowerment in a situation that might otherwise feel overwhelming or out of your hands.
Build resilience and develop strategies to handle challenging situations in the workplace effectively.
TL;DR
If negativity, harassment, or bullying are the norm in your workplace, you’re probably in a toxic work environment. This can lead to serious health issues (both physical and mental). If you’re not sure what to do, weigh your options and consider applying to jobs where your wellbeing will be a priority. There are safe, supportive, and awesome teams out there ready to welcome you!