According to recent research in Australia, mental health concerns have contributed to around 9% of total work-related injuries and other cases at the workplace. The study further shows that 1 out of 4 employees have faced anger, harassment, and violence at the workplace. A toxic workplace culture can be very draining for every individual and it affects one’s mental health and well-being.
That is why, it is not only important to address this toxicity but it also needs to be removed effectively. However, it is not an easy task. According to the American Psychological Association, toxic workplaces can make employees feel unsafe and they start looking for safer avenues. Let’s find some effective strategies to navigate through the toxic work environment.
1. Identify the Toxic Signs
If your workplace constantly makes you feel anxious and stressed, it is a sign of a toxic environment already. If you notice bias, office gossip, abusive behavior from supervisors, unethical practices, or anything similar; it can be said that your workplace culture is quite disturbing to work. It creates an atmosphere of fear and makes it feel unsafe.
2. Protect Mental Health
Once you have identified the toxic symptoms, you know where you are standing and now, it is time to establish boundaries to protect your mental health. Setting clear boundaries includes limit on work hours, response time for emails, and also interactions with toxic colleagues. Make sure to focus on self-care activities outside the workplace to create balance in mind. Emphasizing your mental health is crucial and you can use mindfulness techniques to improve it.
3. Do Not Hesitate to Seek Support
You can feel lonely in a toxic workplace and that is why you need support from others. Do not hesitate to call for help from colleagues and mentors. These people have been there in your place and guide you with some tips. Their moral support is also important for emotional substance.
4. Document Toxic Behavior
Fighting with toxicity is tricky and you need to safeguard yourself too. You cannot just turn up to the management and want them to look into the matter unless you have solid proof behind it. That is why, it is important to record toxic behavior that you can show to your immediate manager or employer to covey your concerns. Try to find a solution than just pointing out the problem.
5. Create a Personal Wellness Plan
As a toxic workplace can drain your soul and energy, you need to create a personal wellness plan that allows you to unwind and practice mindfulness. Incorporate regular activities in your daily routine that help to maintain mental and physical well-being. Do not feel awkward to seek professional help and therapy sessions when you can feel the need.
6. Explore Communities for Support
External networks and communities can offer priceless support for the victims of toxicity in the workplace. Try to connect with other professionals who can guide you with fresher and more effective perspectives that your workplace lacks. Connecting with like-minded individuals who face the same toxic environment can help to create a sense of solidarity with offers and an organic dose of motivation.
7. Sharpen Your Communication Skills
Efficient communication skills can help to deal with a lot of issues and even a toxic workplace. Listening, active empathy, patience, assertive communication, etc are the key elopements to sharpen your mind and tongue. It will help you express your problems better and find effective solutions.
Concluding Thoughts
Putting up with a toxic workplace in the long run might not be the best choice. Always be prepared with an exit strategy since you can always look for a better workplace. However, it is also important to deal with these issues as you never know when your next workplace will become toxic too.
