Workplace bullying: the silent epidemic

It often leads to a toxic work culture that reduces productivity and affects employee morale

Various studies have often found that around 30 percent of employees face harassment at every step they take in their workplace, while a significant portion of the workforce witnesses it without intervening. Unlike harassment, which is more likely to be reported due to the legal and policy frameworks surrounding it, bullying often lacks formal channels for redress. Workplace bullying is a serious and widespread problem that affects individuals and organizations across industries. It has become a silent epidemic where the victim’s personal life and professional achievements often deteriorate in terms of mental health, resulting in loss of self-esteem.

Not only does the employee suffer, but the consequences are equally serious for the organization as well. The stress of repeated harassment results in physical health problems such as headaches, insomnia and a weakened immune system, leading to reduced employee engagement and productivity. Now, workplace bullying manifests itself in countless ways, from overt actions like public humiliation to covert tactics like excluding someone from important meetings or withholding crucial information. There may also be power dynamics, where a manager targets subordinate or senior staff and manipulates their younger colleagues. Unlike occasional conflicts or disagreements, this type of bullying is systematic and persistent, creating a toxic environment for those targeted. However, the psychological impact of bullying can be significant. Victims often experience stress, anxiety and depression due to the constant harassment. This stress further manifests in physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and even cardiovascular problems, as the body’s stress response is constantly activated. In extreme cases, the trauma can even lead to serious mental health problems, affecting the victim’s self-esteem and overall sense of well-being. Over time, employees or the victim may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if the harassment is severe or prolonged. The victim may avoid their workplace altogether, resulting in absenteeism, and in some cases even quit their job to escape the toxic atmosphere.

This stigma, combined with the fear of being seen as weak or incompetent, can even prevent them from seeking help. The resulting isolation allows bullying to continue unchecked and victims to suffer without the support they need. This isolation further perpetuates the silence surrounding workplace bullying, making it a pervasive but hidden problem. This reduction in productivity not only impacts the targeted individual, but can also disrupt team cohesion, workflow, and project timelines. This culture of fear can sooner or later result in a breakdown of trust and respect between team members, reducing collaboration and open communication. . As more employees disengage or become demoralized, the overall culture of the organization will suffer, leading to lower employee satisfaction and retention. It cannot be ignored that workplace bullying is a widespread problem with far-reaching consequences for individuals, team dynamics and organizational success. A clear anti-bullying policy, coupled with effective reporting mechanisms, can allow employees to come forward without fear of retaliation. Organizations should also invest in regular training to help employees recognize and address bullying behavior in themselves and others, promoting a workplace culture that discourages abuse. Only when an organization emphasizes respect, responsibility and open communication can the incidence of bullying be reduced, leading to a more positive, productive and healthy work environment. Preventing workplace bullying will benefit not only the victims but also the organization, strengthening a work culture that values ​​employee well-being and mutual respect.

(The writer is an educator; opinions are personal)