Workplace bullying

@Workbullying i cantg help really because i cannot work due to my mi. is there a hr section where you can talk to about the bullying?

An anxiety injury that is developing from workplace bullying is as serious as getting your hand caught in machinery. If you are a member of a union; contact your union rep for guidance on how to raise your concerns with management. Is there an Employee Assistance Program provided by your workplace?

Keep a record of the bullying incidents with names, date, time, location and what was said/done and write down what has already been going on. Documentation will be helpful if you need to claim compensation for counselling. Toxic workplace cultures rely on bullied employees to feel that they have a thin skin and to resign and move on without "rocking the boat".

Those days are gone.

Bullying | Safe Work Australia

Hello @Workbullying

Sorry you are dealing with that.

Hmmm and they thought mental health issues were mainly genetic.

It is only recently psychosocial realities are being discussed.

@Jo-anneJoy has good strategies.

I experienced bullying in the workplace, but also good cultures.

Currently dealing with bullying in a church and going through processes to address it.

In the past I always withdrew as in an extremely low socioeconomic position, nowadays not in the mood to always "suck it up sunshine".

I am learning to use humour, as the shoe is on the other foot ... a little. I have noticed that those who are used to being on top have pretty thin skins themselves, their humour or confidence only goes as far as it serves them.

Eg This morning as part of my ruminations I keep dreamt up scenarios when I talk back ... with wit.

The nature of bullying is that they realise there is pressure on to conform. I am also recruiting friends and finding that they have suffered under said person's manipulations, at any rate I am doing good things and having good times with my friends. Who knows what will happen in my particular situation.

There has been a bit of hooha about bullying not being acceptable, but seems to be on the rise.

Take Care

Hello @Workbullying it's an awful situation to be in. But persevere, inform your managers, and if it's your manager that's the bully, go higher.

I took a year's secondment to escape bullying then resigned rather than return. For the next 10 years I endured insecure contract and casual work with no superannuation. The irony is that within weeks of my resignation the bully was demoted. The senior manager had encouraged me to return, saying things may change, but I'd thought it was just platitudes.

It's especially hard for us with MH issues as we may be targeted and stigmatised, and we internalise the blame, while the stress and anxiety exacerbate our illness. So document what's happening and cc: others into problematic communications. Seek help from your MH team, your workplace and your personal support network. Debrief and reality check. You may be surprised at how much you're truly appreciated, validated and supported.

Good luck and keep us in the loop.

Dimity

@Workbullying on reflection I've just realised how inappropriate my last message may have been depending on where you work and the lines of supervision. But please don't feel alone. Can you share with us more about what you're experiencing and your circumstances? I absolutely hear you about the misery of being bullied. Mine was often verbal or rude notes left on my desk, and I was excluded from an office party. I also encountered antagonism and vindictive blockages in my work.

Dimity

Hi @Dimity ,

It wasn't inappropriate at all. Thank you so much for your comment. It means a lot to me.

Thank you so much @Jo-anneJoy. Yes, I'm keeping a record, an email trail of times when there's been significant bullying incidents, and when I've gone to management to complain, but nothing's happened. I have accessed the counselling service offered by this workplace, and I will do so again to deal with the current wave of aggression. Thank you so much for your support and for listening. x

Hi @Appleblossom,

THank you so much for your comment. I really appreciate it. Getting your experience and insight has helped. I have also used humour over the years, but I think it has at times allowed people to walk all over me a bit... I've been too friendly, and it's felt like my energy is being sapped or used when I get negativity and underhanded insults and criticism in return. These women use gossip, slander and ostracism to destroy the people they find threatening... and it has gotten to me lately. It's especially hurtful considering a lot of these women are not doing a good job professionally. Anyway, thanks for your understanding. It means a lot and has helped. xx

Thanks @Bunniekins for your comment. Yes, I've gone to management about it years ago... three years after starting at the job when I couldn't take the passive aggression any longer. But nothing's been done. They don't care. It's very disappointing. But chatting here has helped and today I've gone to work but kept out of the way of all the bullies. I've hidden in empty classrooms and done my work when I've had spare time when not teaching. It's helped and will be something I do regularly for the time being to keep myself emotionally and psychologically safe from harm. Thanks again x

Hello @Workbullying

If you prefix a name with @ it will generate a notification to the person you're replying to.

It sounds a difficult and fraught situation for you, overlaid by workplace regulations and codes of practice regarding protections against discrimination on the basis of gender and sexuality.

Seeking outside counselling sounds a good idea. I'd also recommend speaking to your gp about your anxiety and insomnia.

Going back to my previous comments on debriefing and reality checks this is important as heightened anxiety can make us especially sensitive to perceived slights. A question "did you notice that?" to one of your many friends can either confirm your suspicions and ensure you have a witness or let them reassure you that this time your fears were unfounded.

It sounds as though you're a dedicated and inspiring teacher so hang in there.

Dimity