Mental Harassment at Workplace: Best 5 Powerful Ways to Address It

Creating a safe and supportive work environment cannot be overstated in today’s fast-paced professional world. Mental harassment at workplace can creep into our lives, cause chaos in our well-being, and obstruct our ability to thrive. As per a global survey conducted by the International Labour Organization, 3 out of 5 victims faced harassment at work multiple times.

Mental harassment at workplace, often referred to as “workplace bullying” or “psychological harassment”, is a form of psychological abuse that occurs in a professional setting. It may involve a range of behaviours, such as intimidation, humiliation, verbal abuse, exclusion, or spreading malicious rumours about an employee.

What is Mental Harassment at Workplace?

Mental harassment at workplace refers to any form of emotional, psychological, or verbal abuse that creates an intimidating environment for an employee. It involves behaviors that undermine/weakens a person’s dignity, self-worth, and mental well-being, impacting their ability to perform their job effectively.

It includes various actions, such as verbal abuse, humiliation, intimidation, threats, isolation, and manipulation. These activities can lead to a hostile work environment, impacting the victim’s self-esteem, mental health, and job performance.

5 Types of Mental Harassment

Below are the 5 different types of mental harassment that are often faced by employees at workplace:

1. Verbal Abuse

We define verbal abuse as using abusive words, slurs, or insulting statements to denigrate or humiliate another person. It can happen in one-on-one interactions or in front of others, causing embarrassment and emotional distress. Examples of verbal abuse include:

• Constantly criticizing someone’s work, appearance, or personal life.
• Using offensive language or derogatory terms to refer to an individual.
• Mocking or ridiculing someone’s ideas or contributions during meetings.

2. Intimidation

Intimidation is behavior that creates fear or distress by using aggressive body language, shouting, or threatening. It is often used to assert dominance or control over others. Here are some examples of workplace intimidation:

• Raising one’s voice threateningly to intimidate a coworker.
• Making physical gestures or invading personal space to create fear.
• Threatening someone’s job security or career advancement if they do not comply with certain demands.

3. Bullying

Bullying involves persistent and repetitive negative behaviour aimed at harming an individual emotionally, socially, or professionally. It can emerge in various ways, with negative consequences for the victim’s well-being. Examples of workplace bullying include:

• Spreading rumours or gossip about a coworker to tarnish their reputation.
• Excluding someone from team activities or important meetings to isolate them.
• Undermining someone’s work by taking credit for their ideas or sabotaging their projects.

4. Discrimination

Discrimination is the unfair or disparate treatment of persons based on gender, race, religion, or other protected characteristics. It can create a hostile work environment and lead to feelings of marginalization and distress. Examples of workplace discrimination include:

• Denying someone a promotion or pay raise based on gender or ethnicity.
• Making offensive comments or jokes about someone’s religious beliefs or cultural background.
• Assigning undesirable tasks or limiting opportunities based on discriminatory biases.

5. Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying has become a common type of mental abuse as technology has advanced. It entails harassing, threatening, or intimidating individuals via Internet channels. Examples of workplace cyberbullying include:

• Sending malicious or derogatory emails or messages to a coworker.
• Posting defamatory content or spreading false rumours about someone on social media.
• Sharing inappropriate images or engaging in online harassment through anonymous accounts.

It is important to know that these examples are not the only ones, and mental harassment can take various forms depending on the specific circumstances and individuals involved. Recognizing the signs of mental harassment case is crucial to address and prevent such behavior in the workplace.

Signs of Mental Harassment at Workplace

Signs of mental harassment at the workplace can manifest in various ways, affecting both the emotional and physical well-being of an individual. Here are some key indicators:

1. Constant Criticism: Being unfairly criticized or belittled in front of others, even for minor mistakes, without any constructive feedback.
2. Exclusion: Being deliberately left out of important meetings, discussions, or team activities, which can lead to feelings of isolation.
3. Unrealistic Expectations: Being given unreasonable tasks or workloads that are impossible to complete within a given timeframe, causing stress and anxiety.
4. Verbal Abuse: Experiencing offensive, threatening, or degrading language directed towards you, often in a public or private setting.
5. Manipulation: Being manipulated or coerced into doing things against your values or professional integrity, often under duress.
6. Undue Pressure: Constant pressure to meet impossible deadlines or performance targets, leading to anxiety and burnout.
7. Withholding Information: Colleagues or supervisors deliberately withhold information or resources necessary for your job, hindering your ability to perform.
8. Unjustified Punishment: Facing disproportionate punishment or consequences for mistakes, especially compared to others in similar situations.
9. Negative Gossip: Spreading malicious rumors or gossip about an individual to damage their reputation within the workplace.
10. Physical Symptoms of Stress: Experiencing headaches, sleeplessness, anxiety, or other bodily symptoms due to the mental stress from the harassment.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it is essential to address the issue, whether through HR, seeking support, or understanding legal protections in place for workers.

What is Employee Harassment Act in India?

The Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act (commonly known as the POSH Act) is the primary employee harassment act that addresses sexual harassment in the workplace. The act aims to ensure a safe and secure working environment for women and prevent any form of sexual harassment in the workplace.

Impact of Mental Harassment

Mental Harassment case has severe consequences for the victims. It can lead to anxiety, depression, fear, and emotional instability. Victims may experience declining job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and motivation. It has also been observed that women experiencing mental harassment at workplace is common.

Prolonged exposure to mental harassment can result in physical health problems, including headaches, insomnia, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, it can hinder career growth, as victims may face difficulties focusing on their work, pursuing opportunities, or building professional relationships.

Resources for Dealing with Mental Harassment at Workplace

Experiencing mental harassment at workplace can be emotionally challenging and psychologically distressing. Individuals who find themselves in such situations must know how to deal with mental harassment at workplace, seek support, and utilize available resources to navigate these difficult circumstances. Here are some support options and resources that can provide assistance and guidance.

1. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs to support their employees’ mental well-being. EAPs typically provide confidential counselling services, referrals to mental health professionals, and resources to help individuals cope with workplace issues, including mental harassment.

2. Counseling Services

Professional counselling services can play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the emotional impact of mental harassment in the workplace. Licensed therapists or counsellors trained in workplace issues can provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss experiences, process emotions, and develop effective coping strategies.

3. Legal Helplines and Advocacy Organizations

Several organizations and helplines specialize in providing legal advice and support to individuals facing workplace harassment, including mental harassment. These resources can help individuals understand their legal rights and offer guidance on filing a mental harassment case. Organizations like the National Commission for Women (NCW) and local labour authorities can assist in India.

4. Support Groups and Peer Networks

Joining support groups or connecting with others who have experienced similar workplace challenges can provide a sense of validation, solidarity, and many connections may be facilitated online. Online forums, social media groups, or local community connections.

5. Human Resources Department

Employees facing mental harassment should consider contacting their organization’s human resources (HR) department. HR professionals are trained to handle workplace issues, including complaints of harassment. They can provide guidance on the company’s policies and procedures, initiate internal investigations, and take appropriate actions to address the situation.

6. Reporting Platforms and Whistleblower Protection

Some workplaces have established reporting platforms or whistleblower mechanisms to address harassment-related concerns. These platforms allow individuals to report incidents anonymously and ensure confidentiality.

By accessing these support options, individuals can find the guidance, validation, and assistance they need to cope with the impact of mental harassment and take appropriate actions to address the issue in their workplace. They can also learn habits that will make them mentally strong so that they can create a peaceful workplace for themselves.

Laws and Regulations to Prevent Mental Harassment

To address mental harassment effectively, being aware of the laws and regulations is crucial. In India, several laws protect individuals from mental harassment at the workplace, including:

1. Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act (2013): This act mandates the establishment of internal complaint committees, defines sexual harassment, and outlines the procedure for filing complaints. It provides a legal framework to address and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
   
2. Mental Harassment IPC Section 509: Mental Harassment at workplace IPC section 509 covers offences related to words, gestures, or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman, including mental harassment. It allows individuals to seek legal remedies. The person responsible for the harassment would be imprisoned for up to three years.
   
3. Information Technology Act (2000): The IT Act addresses online harassment, cyberbullying, and electronic communication offences that can cause mental harassment. It provides provisions to deal with cybercrime and safeguard individuals from online harassment.
   
4. Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946: This act requires employers in certain sectors to define clear conduct guidelines and rules for employees. Mental harassment can be addressed within these guidelines, allowing employees to file grievances if subjected to unreasonable treatment.

Where and How to Complain Against Mental Harassment?

If you are a victim of mental harassment, taking appropriate steps to address the issue is crucial. Here are some essential actions to consider while filing a complaint against mental harassment at the workplace:

1. Document Incidents: Maintain a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, and a description of the harassment. This documentation will provide crucial evidence and support your case if you file a complaint.
   
2. Internal Complaint Mechanism: Many organizations have internal complaint mechanisms or grievance cells to address workplace harassment. Consult your employee handbook or HR department to understand the process and file a formal complaint.
   
3. Seek Support: Contact trusted colleagues, friends, or mentors for support and guidance. Discussing the issue with someone can provide emotional support and help you gather different perspectives.
   
4. Legal Consultation: If internal mechanisms fail to provide a satisfactory resolution, consider seeking legal advice from an employment law specialist. They can guide you on your rights, legal options, and the steps to take for a formal complaint or legal action.
   
5. External Authorities: In severe cases, or when internal mechanisms are ineffective, you may need to involve external authorities. This can include reporting the harassment to local labor offices, human rights commissions, or filing a First Information Report (FIR) to the police, depending on the nature of the harassment.

Why Mental Health Should Be Addressed Timely?

Addressing mental harassment at the workplace is essential. By recognizing the signs, understanding the impact, and taking appropriate actions, we can foster a culture that values all employees’ respect, dignity, and well-being. Remember, no one should endure mental harassment; everyone deserves to work in a safe and supportive workplace.

Let’s remember we have the power to shape the future of our work environments. By addressing mental harassment head-on, we not only improve the lives of individuals today but also lay the foundation for a more equitable and harmonious workplace for generations to come.

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Conclusion

Workplace mental harassment is a significant issue that affects employee well-being, productivity, and the overall organizational climate. Organizations must foster a culture of respect and inclusivity by implementing strong policies, raising awareness, and encouraging open communication. Employees must feel secure and supported when reporting harassment, without fear of retaliation. Strengthening legal protections and support systems is essential to ensuring justice and safety for all. Addressing workplace harassment is a legal responsibility and an ethical imperative, contributing to a safe and supportive environment where employees can thrive.

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