Workplace bullying is more than occasional conflict or a tough day at the office. In Australia, Safe Work Australia defines it as repeated, unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker (or group of workers) that creates a risk to health and safety. Bullying can include shouting, humiliation, exclusion from work-related activities or setting impossible deadlines. Over time, these experiences chip away at confidence, increase anxiety and may lead to serious psychological injury.
The Impact on Wellbeing
Being subjected to bullying often triggers stress responses: poor sleep, headaches, digestive issues, irritability or even panic attacks. Many workers report feeling trapped between needing to work to pay their bills and fearing going into work each day. Left unaddressed, bullying can contribute to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and burnout. For organisations, the consequences are also stark: lower productivity, absenteeism, higher turnover and workers’ compensation claims.
Strategies for Workers Experiencing Bullying
While every situation is unique, the following approaches can support your safety and wellbeing:
- Document what happens.
- Seek internal support.
- Know when to escalate
- Prioritise your health.
- Building Personal Wellbeing
While systemic change is essential, there are also small steps you can take to protect your wellbeing while coping with bullying behaviours at work:
- Strengthen your support network. Talk to trusted friends, family or colleagues outside of the bullying environment.
- Engage in grounding routines. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices and structured relaxation can help reduce stress hormones.
- Rebuild self-worth. Journaling daily strengths or achievements, even the smallest ones, can counteract the erosion of confidence bullying often causes.
- Plan for the future. Sometimes the healthiest decision is to explore other roles or workplaces where respect and psychological safety are prioritised.
