Workplace bullying can harm the person experiencing it and those who witness it. The consequences will vary depending on individual characteristics as well as the situation.

Some common effects may include one or more of the following:

Health risks

• Distress, anxiety, panic attacks or sleep disturbance.
• Physical illness, such as muscular tension, headaches and digestive problems.
• Mood changes such as depression and panic attacks.
• Loss of self-esteem and feelings of isolation.
• Increased risks of suicide.
   

Interpersonal relationships

• Deteriorating relationships with colleagues, family and friends.
• Self-isolation to avoid the bully.
• Lost motivation in socialising.
   

Impact on job performance

• An incapacity to work or concentrate.
• A loss of sense of career directions.
• Having trouble making decisions.
• Lower job satisfaction.
   

Effects on the workplace 

• Creates a hostile work environment.
• Impacts worker's compensation claims.
• Promotes absenteeism.
• Reduces productivity.
• Results in costly and possibly embarrassing legal issues​.
• Additional costs to recruit and train new employees
   

Given the detrimental effects of bullying, employees and employers must acknowledge bullying as a serious issue and seek alternatives to prevent this from happening in the workplace or reduce the long-term impact of bullying. 

If you are experiencing bullying, please consider accessing counselling support by making an appointment with one of our clinicians by calling 1300 360 364 (AU) or 0800 360 364 (NZ) or speak now with a clinician via LiveChat (available via BeneHub).

As a People Leader, you may be aware of bullying within your team. You can reach out to our MyCoach for People Leaders and access coaching support to guide you on how to best support your people.

Written by Jess Yap, Psychologist at Benestar.