In my previous posts, I explored what burnout looks like and the impact of layoffs and job uncertainty. Today, I want to delve into another significant factor contributing to burnout: toxic work environments and poor leadership. Understanding these issues and their effects on mental health is crucial for creating healthier workplaces and managing personal well-being.
Survey Results: The Prevalence of Toxic Bosses and Workplace Culture
A recent survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that toxic workplaces are a significant concern for many employees. According to their 2023 Work in America survey, more than 1 in 5 workers reported experiencing harm to their mental health at work. Additionally, 22% of workers said they experienced harassment at work in the past 12 months1.
These findings are supported by a Harris Poll on Toxic Bosses that we mentioned before, which found that 71% of American workers have had at least one toxic boss during their career and that recently 66% of employees have heard their bosses say they are "lucky to have their job." This kind of rhetoric often leads to a toxic work environment where employees feel undervalued and overworked2.
Effects on Employees: The Psychological Impact of Toxic Leadership
Toxic leadership can have severe psychological effects on employees, including:
1. Increased Stress and Anxiety: Employees under toxic leaders often experience high levels of stress and anxiety. This can lead to physical symptoms like headaches, sleep disturbances, and chronic fatigue3.
2. Decreased Motivation and Productivity: Toxic environments drain employees' motivation and productivity. The fear and negativity associated with toxic leadership can result in decreased engagement and performance4.
3. Emotional Exhaustion and Burnout: The constant stress and negative interactions with toxic leaders contribute significantly to burnout. Emotional exhaustion, a key component of burnout, is often exacerbated by a lack of support and recognition from management5.
4. Job Insecurity and High Turnover: Employees in toxic environments are more likely to feel insecure about their jobs and are more prone to leave. High turnover rates are common in organizations with poor leadership, further destabilizing the workplace .
Real Solutions: Practical Advice for Dealing with Difficult Managers
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your mental health. This includes setting limits on work hours and being assertive about your needs and expectations.
Seek Support: Build a support network within and outside of your workplace. Confide in trusted colleagues, friends, or family members about your experiences.
Document Interactions: Keep a record of interactions with toxic managers. Documenting incidents can be useful if you need to escalate the issue to HR or seek external help.
Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies to reduce stress and maintain your well-being6.
Professional Development: Invest in your professional development. Seek opportunities for training and growth, which can boost your confidence and career prospects.
Consider External Help: If the situation becomes unbearable, seek advice from a coach or a mental health professional. They can provide strategies for coping and improving your situation.
Take Action
It is so easy to get stuck in the dark hole of these toxic environments and toxic bosses. One of the ways that you can start to feel hopeful again is by taking back control through seeking help and advice.
Having been in these kind of environments and worked for a couple of really toxic jerks, I can provide support and guidance as you navigate what’s next.
My coaching can be one single session to jumpstart your movement, or it can be a series of sessions and/or daily voice note coaching that allows me to be your constant companion during this transition. Visit my website to learn more and schedule a session. (Note: Do not let money hinder you from help…reach out and let’s figure out what we can do.)
See you soon!
Leah
https://www.apa.org/topics/healthy-workplaces/toxic-workplace#:~:text=URL%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apa.org%2Ftopics%2Fhealthy,100
https://theharrispoll.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Toxic-Bosses-Survey-October-2023.pdf
https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/07/work-mental-health-challenges#:~:text=URL%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apa.org%2Fnews%2Fpress%2Freleases%2F2023%2F07%2Fwork,100
https://www.apa.org/topics/healthy-workplaces/toxic-workplace#:~:text=URL%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.apa.org%2Ftopics%2Fhealthy,100
https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/ceo-priorities-where-to-focus-as-the-year-unfolds
https://hrdailyadvisor.blr.com/2024/04/04/8-mental-health-tips-for-coping-with-layoffs/