Psychological abuse in the workplace can take many forms, including bullying, harassment, and manipulation. It can have serious consequences for both the individual being targeted and the overall work environment. Here are some tips on how to deal with psychological abuse in the workplace:
- Recognise the signs: It can be difficult to identify psychological abuse, but some common signs include feeling belittled, threatened, or isolated by a co-worker or supervisor. If you are experiencing any of these feelings, it is important to take them seriously.
- Speak up: If you feel comfortable, consider talking to the person who is causing the abuse. It is important to be assertive but also respectful and calm. If the person causing the abuse is your supervisor, you might also consider talking to a supervisor or human resources representative.
- Document the abuse: Keep a record of the incidents of abuse, including the date, time, and what was said or done. This can be helpful if you decide to take further action.
- Seek support: It is important to take care of yourself both emotionally and physically. Reach out to friends and family for support and consider speaking to a therapist or counsellor.
- Be prepared for backlash: Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for the person causing the abuse to retaliate. Be prepared for this possibility and have a plan in place.
- Consider legal action: If the abuse is severe and persistent, and if the company is not taking appropriate action, you may want to consider legal action.
It’s important to remember that psychological abuse in the workplace is not your fault, and you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. By being proactive and seeking help and support, you can take steps to protect yourself and create a better work environment for everyone.