Mobbing, also known as workplace harassment, is a form of psychological violence that manifests itself in the workplace and can have devastating effects on the mental and emotional health of the person who suffers it. This type of aggression is characterized by the repetition of hostile, humiliating or intimidating behavior towards an individual by one or more co-workers, hierarchical superiors or subordinates. Mobbing can cause stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and other psychological problems in the victim, as well as deteriorate the work environment in general.
How to deal with it mobbing?
1. Recognize the situation
The first step to confront mobbing is to recognize that you are being a victim of workplace harassment. It is important to be aware of inappropriate behavior, excessive criticism, malicious rumors, or any other form of harassment you may be experiencing at work. Don't minimize your feelings or justify the actions of those who harass you. Recognizing the situation is essential to be able to act and seek solutions.
2. Seek support
Mobbing can make you feel isolated, vulnerable and helpless. Seek support from family, friends, trusted colleagues, or a mental health professional. Talking about what you are experiencing will help you vent, receive comfort, and gain different points of view on the situation. Do not try to face workplace bullying alone, it is important to have a support system that supports you emotionally.
3. Document attacks
In order to defend your rights and report mobbing, it is essential to collect evidence of the attacks you are suffering at work. Save emails, messages, notes, recordings or any other type of evidence that may support your complaints. Detailed documentation of harassment incidents will allow you to show patterns of harmful behavior and support your case should you decide to take legal action.
4. Set clear boundaries
It is important that you define clear boundaries with your harassers and with the organization you work for. Communicate firmly and respectfully that you are not willing to tolerate workplace harassment and that you will take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Setting healthy boundaries will help you protect your emotional well-being and make it clear that you are not willing to be treated unfairly or abusively at work.
5. Seek professional help
If workplace bullying is affecting your mental health, do not hesitate to seek help from a psychology professional. A psychologist or psychotherapist specialized in the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress will give you tools to confront mobbing, improve your emotional well-being and strengthen your self-esteem. Psychological therapy can be an invaluable resource to overcome the consequences of workplace bullying and recover your emotional balance.
6. Evaluate your legal options
If mobbing persists despite your efforts to stop it, it is important to consider your legal options. Consult with an employment law attorney to evaluate the feasibility of taking legal action against your harassers or against the company that has not acted to stop the harassment. Knowing your rights and the legal avenues available will help you protect your interests and seek justice in the face of workplace harassment.
7. Take care of your emotional well-being
Mobbing can have a devastating impact on your emotional well-being and quality of life. Spend time taking care of yourself, practicing activities that generate well-being and relieve stress. The practice of meditation, physical exercise, reading, music or other activities that you enjoy can be a balm for your mental and emotional health in times of difficulty. Take care of your emotional and physical well-being, prioritize your health and happiness above any toxic work situation.
8. Explore new job opportunities
If workplace bullying has become unsustainable and the situation is not improving despite your efforts, you may consider exploring new job opportunities. Look for healthy work environments, where respect, collaboration and employee well-being are encouraged. Don't be afraid to look for a work environment that values your contribution, your talent, and your integrity. Your emotional health and happiness are vital, and you deserve to work in a place where you feel valued and respected.
In conclusion, mobbing is a serious problem that can affect the health and well-being of people in the job. If you are facing workplace harassment, it is important that you recognize the situation, seek support, document the attacks, establish clear limits, seek professional help, evaluate your legal options, take care of your emotional well-being and explore new job opportunities if necessary. Remember that you are not alone and that there are resources and professionals trained to help you deal with mobbing and regain your emotional balance.
Sources:
1. Leymann, H. (1996). The Content and Development of Mobbing at Work. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 5(2), 165-184.
2. Salin, D. (2001). Prevalence and Forms of Bullying Among Business Professionals: A Comparison of Two Different Strategies for Sampling and Analyzes. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 10(4), 425-441.
3. Zapf, D., & Einarsen, S. (Eds.). (2003). Individual Antecedents of Bullying: Victims and Perpetrators. Taylor & Francis.