When subjected to bullying in the workplace, one’s health and well being is usually the first thing to be affected. Loved ones and friends can also be seriously damaged. Minimizing the consequences of bullying for one's self and others is a useful first step strategy for long term and short term survival. To be effective, the plan should address the consequences of bullying, whether one stays at work, leaves, or initiates a formal procedure of complaint.
Physical and Emotional Effects of Bullying
Whatever is decided will be accompanied by stress and anxiety, and factoring this into a plan will help with the long road ahead. Some of the initial ‘warning signs’ that indicate that an employee is the target of a bully, or bullies, can range from mild insomnia to crushing anxiety or panic attacks. Backache, stomach disorders and skin problems can also be early indicators of abnormal stress loads.
Even when removed from the bullying environment, as in being absent from the workplace, preparing an official complaint, or going through a formal grievance procedure, levels of stress can still be high.
Bullying and its consequences have an impact on the victim’s physical and emotional health, and in acute cases can lead to a complete deregulation of the autonomic nervous system, or what is more commonly referred to as nervous debility.
Making a Plan to Help Cope With Bullying
By taking a few simple steps the worst effects of abnormal stress can be countered or minimized. The Andrea Adams Trust recommends a practical list of common sense things to do that will help in most circumstances.
- Make an appointment with a doctor and tell them what is happening at work
Increasingly doctors see patients suffering from a variety of work related stress conditions, and are not in the least surprised by symptoms of bullying behaviour; a doctor is more likely to be aware of the underlying causes of such symptoms than the victim.
- Follow the doctor’s advice and get signed off work if necessary
This is an important remedy, and can provide a much needed relief from what can often be a volatile and unhealthy situation, providing an opportunity to gather strength and resources. If engaged in a formal grievance procedure, being off work will enable the complainant to prepare a stronger case. It can also help minimize confrontation that could be deliberately provoked and very damaging.
- If the workplace offers a counselling service make an early appointment to talk through work problems with a professional
- If counselling is not available at work, see if there is one at the local medical practice or elsewhere in the near locality
- Make a conscious effort to eat well and maintain a healthy and balanced diet
- Learn to relax
Relaxation is a skill that anyone can learn. Many clubs and associations provide training in Yoga, meditation, and lots of other activities that involve relaxation.
- Maintain contacts with friends outside of work – a good listener will be of great help
- Make time to do the things that are enjoyable, or explore new and potentially interesting things that are fun to do
- Take advantage of little treats – be kind to yourself - and hang on to a sense of humour
- Get in touch with support agencies that offer help and advice
This is not an exhaustive list of what to do, but it is a common sense guide for those who are experiencing the effects of bullying in the workplace. It is also useful for those who are going through the aftermath of such an experience, and can help individuals who have left the workplace, or who might be engaged in a formal action or law suit.
Alister Gillies - Alister's background is in project development. He is trained in counselling and personal development, although his academic background is ...
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