The psychological toll of toxic work environments: Hidden costs on employee mental health

Chinmayee Aphale -

Before we get into the analysis of how a toxic work environment can impact people’s mental health, let us first understand what the term ‘toxic’ means. The toxic environment is an ecosystem where you constantly feel insecure about yourself and the work you do. There are multiple factors associated with it. Toxicity could exist because of multiple reasons. Unfair and biased treatment, unhealthy leadership styles, lack of mutual trust and respect, lack of recognition from the authorities, and policies that do not ensure employee wellbeing are all part of the ecosystem that can produce toxicity. When we talk about safety at work, it is incredibly important to address both physical and emotional safety. If a workplace fails to provide either of these, it automatically becomes toxic. 

How to identify if a workplace or workplace culture is toxic?

  • Lack of inclusive decisions
  • Demanding and pressurizing employees to meet idealistic timelines 
  • No support at work
  • Lack of respect and boundaries 
  • Making employees feel inferior 
  • Rigidity for adapting to change

How does toxicity affect an individual’s mental health?

  • Burnout: It is a form of exhaustion caused by long-term and recurrent stressful factors in an individual’s life. Not only does it affect one’s productivity and motivation but it can also make you feel physically and emotionally worn out. According to a study done by the UKG Workforce Institute, around 78% of employees in India experience some form of Job Burnout. 
  • Indecisiveness and feeling of being stuck: Many people report being stuck and unable to confront the organization because of the financial responsibilities they bear. If your workplace does not allow you to speak up because you could lose your job that is #1 toxicity. 
  • Poor self-care: When you are drowning in work and constantly multi-tasking, work doesn’t leave you even when you return home. Excessive workload interferes with your priorities and can make you choose work over everything else. Having little to no time to practice self-care activities or even have some ‘me’ time can elevate your stress levels and affect your mood as well.
  • Relationships with your loved ones can also be affected by to toxic work environment. Any relationship, be it romantic or platonic requires attention, time and effort. When work overtakes your relationships and basic needs, it is time to pause and reflect on what you want from life. 
  • Mental health issues: Long-term neglect of your basic needs and priorities can suppress your feelings. Built-up emotions such as anger, frustration and sadness can develop into more serious mental health challenges. Being exposed to a toxic environment can also alter your behaviour and response patterns. It can seriously affect your wellbeing and satisfaction with life. 

The good news is by redefining your work culture and functionalism, you can truly create a space that can nurture and let employees grow personally and professionally. 

Here is how you can implement strategies to redefine your workplace:

Need analysis: It is important to understand the pulse of your employees. A pulse check helps employers get a snapshot of how employees feel about their work environment, management, and job satisfaction. This real-time feedback can highlight areas of concern that need immediate attention.

Check in on your employees regularly: Remember that you have hired a person and not just their talent. As human beings, all of us go through challenges from time to time. If someone is choosing to show up to work despite these challenges, they can use a little extra support from everyone around them. Along with monthly feedback sessions and review meetings, you can also start conducting regular emotional check-ins with employees to assess their wellbeing and job satisfaction. Encourage open dialogue and feedback to address any concerns or issues that may arise. There are multiple checklists available online that can be used for it. But it is best done with the help of a mental health expert. 

Communicate changes and maintain transparency: As soon as any decisions are made or changes are planned, communicate them to employees. Delays can lead to rumors and misinformation, which can create confusion and anxiety. If the change was driven by employee feedback, acknowledge this. Let employees know their input was valuable and played a role in shaping the decision. This fosters a sense of involvement and validation. 

Address concerns and answer questions: Hold meetings or Q&A sessions where employees can ask questions and express concerns. This provides a platform for direct communication and demonstrates that leadership is open to feedback.

Offer professional support: Mental Health Professionals are trained to create and provide a safe, non-judgmental space that fosters growth, healing, and support. Employee Assistance Programs offer a range of services that allow you to introspect and enhance your understanding and wellbeing. Individual counseling sessions with mental health experts also allow employees to work on their concerns and navigate challenges more effectively.

FAQs:

How to assess if your work is unhealthy?

It would be helpful to pay attention to your stress levels pertaining to work, whether you can communicate things honestly, have enough support and understanding if your requests are considered and efforts are appreciated. 

  1. How can I determine if my mental health issues are related to a toxic work environment?
  2. Track your symptoms
  3. Assess your work environment and talk to colleagues