4 Signs Of An Unhealthy Work Environment And A Guide To Cope If You Are In One

While an ideal day includes rest and recreation, a good portion of most days of the modern human being are spent at work. When it's generally satisfactory and pleasant, it's grand but if those work hours are filled with negativity and toxicity, it can significantly impact one's mental health. An unhealthy work environment can decrease productivity and stifle creativity. At worst, a toxic work culture could even compromise physical and mental health. Employees working in a toxic work environment can even end up suffering from anxiety, depression and stress. The constant fatigue and lack of sleep are only some of the physical effects one can face due to toxic environment. Toxicity at work can lead to counterproductive behaviour, ruin the efficiency of the employee as well as of the organisation.

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With research by Healthline, we have listed some of the signs of a toxic work culture and tips to cope with it.  

Signs of a toxic work environment  

1. Lack of recognition 

Employees who work in a toxic environment often feel underappreciated. Their hard work goes unnoticed, and the company downplays their contribution. The lack of recognition associated with toxic workplaces can lead to demotivation, leading them to deprioritize their jobs.  

2. Cliquish behaviour 

Employees in a toxic workplace often encounter harmful interactions like rudeness, gossip, and bullying. These can include examples like colleagues taking pleasure in putting others down or isolating individuals from camaraderie at work. This behaviour makes it a struggle to work efficiently.  

3. No-work life balance  

A lack of work-life balance is a clear indication of a toxic environment. When employees are consistently expected to spend excessive time doing their jobs without getting any monetary benefit or personal time, it can lead to negative mental and physical effects.  

4. Micromanagement  

Micromanagement is a management style that involves excessive control and minor supervision. Being micromanaged displays a lack of trust as it can stifle creativity and reduce employee morale.  

If you are someone who experiences these unhealthy signs in the office, here's how to cope with them. 

How to cope with toxic work culture 

1. Set boundaries 

Don't get bullied or pressured into skipping your breaks or working after hours. Discuss with your boss the need for breaks and time off the work in order to work efficiently. 

2. Avoid drama 

Try not to entertain gossip or drama. Office gossip will only distract you from your job and can affect one, both mentally and physically.  

3. Don't blame yourself 

The negativity at your job isn't your fault. Having a positive attitude may help in complex situations so remember that you are not the problem and blaming yourself for others' actions will only affect your mental peace and well-being. 

4. Reach out at work

If you find yourself in a toxic work environment and require support, one of the best ways to cope is to seek help. Report the issues with the HR of the company and for a better solution as an unbiased medium. Another good idea to have friends at work so you can lean on to them for such problems.

5. Plan your exit 

If there's no improvement in the work culture even after you have discussed the issues with your seniors, the best way to cope is to plan your exit and try looking for a new position.  

Always remember no work is important than your mental health.  

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