By Naphisabet Kharbamang
Work is important to most of us on many levels. Finding a career-based job that dissatisfies us as opposed to one that we enjoy and can find fulfillment in, will eventually give our life a purposeful direction.
Expert psychologists claim that the 40 to 50 hours per week that we spend at work has a real and significant impact on our mental health.The first step is to recognise that the environment has a significant impact on mental health. But one must identify that change is necessary too. In a toxic environment, employees find it challenging to work and to progress in their careers. Uncertain communication leads to poor working relationships and makes it difficult to complete tasks.That stress of adjusting to constantly changing, uncontrollable job circumstances can raise your chance of developing mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
As per studies, these are the 10 signs that show your mental health is being affected when working in a toxic environment:
1. Repetitive arguments lead to stress hormones.
2. Depression
3. Impede productivity
4. Rumination
5. Change of appetite
6. Insomnia
7. Feeling drained/exhausted
8. Agitation
9. Intolerance
10. Physical pain and discomfort
All of the problems identified have an impact on mental health, which ultimately affects the company as a whole by causing low performance, burnout, absenteeism, etc.
A toxic work environment is a major contributor to health issues both mentally and physically. However there are many ways to cope with such a type of environment. Seek aid from your personal doctor or counsellor, seek advice from your company’s management or human resources department, set boundaries and stick to them, and engage in self-care.