Quick Summary
- Mental harassment at workplace refers to any form of emotional, psychological, or verbal abuse that creates an intimidating environment for an employee.
- India’s Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, IPC Section 509, and IT Act (2000) safeguard employees from harassment.
Table of Contents
Creating a safe and supportive work environment cannot be overstated in today’s fast-paced professional world. Mental harassment at workplace can creep into our lives, cause chaos in our well-being, and obstruct our ability to thrive. As per a global survey conducted by the International Labour Organization, 3 out of 5 victims faced harassment at work multiple times.
Therefore, we must arm ourselves with knowledge and the strategies to combat the mental harassment at workplace effectively, empowering ourselves as well as others to take a stand for a healthier work environment. This article aims to provide valuable insights and practical strategies to tackle mental harassment case and empower individuals to take the necessary actions.
What is Mental Harassment at Workplace?
Mental harassment at workplace refers to any form of emotional, psychological, or verbal abuse that creates an intimidating environment for an employee. It involves behaviors that undermine/weakens a person’s dignity, self-worth, and mental well-being, impacting their ability to perform their job effectively.
It includes various actions, such as verbal abuse, humiliation, intimidation, threats, isolation, and manipulation. These activities can lead to a hostile work environment, impacting the victim’s self-esteem, mental health, and job performance.
5 Types of Mental Harassment
Below are the 5 different types of mental harassment that are often faced by employees at workplace:
1. Verbal Abuse
We define verbal abuse as using abusive words, slurs, or insulting statements to denigrate or humiliate another person. It can happen in one-on-one interactions or in front of others, causing embarrassment and emotional distress. Examples of verbal abuse include:
- Constantly criticizing someone’s work, appearance, or personal life.
- Using offensive language or derogatory terms to refer to an individual.
- Mocking or ridiculing someone’s ideas or contributions during meetings.
2. Intimidation
Intimidation is behavior that creates fear or distress by using aggressive body language, shouting, or threatening. It is often used to assert dominance or control over others. Here are some examples of workplace intimidation:
- Raising one’s voice threateningly to intimidate a coworker.
- Making physical gestures or invading personal space to create fear.
- Threatening someone’s job security or career advancement if they do not comply with certain demands.
3. Bullying
Bullying involves persistent and repetitive negative behaviour aimed at harming an individual emotionally, socially, or professionally. It can emerge in various ways, with negative consequences for the victim’s well-being. Examples of workplace bullying include:
- Spreading rumours or gossip about a coworker to tarnish their reputation.
- Excluding someone from team activities or important meetings to isolate them.
- Undermining someone’s work by taking credit for their ideas or sabotaging their projects.
4. Discrimination
Discrimination is the unfair or disparate treatment of persons based on gender, race, religion, or other protected characteristics. It can create a hostile work environment and lead to feelings of marginalization and distress. Examples of workplace discrimination include:
- Denying someone a promotion or pay raise based on gender or ethnicity.
- Making offensive comments or jokes about someone’s religious beliefs or cultural background.
- Assigning undesirable tasks or limiting opportunities based on discriminatory biases.
5. Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying has become a common type of mental abuse as technology has advanced. It entails harassing, threatening, or intimidating individuals via Internet channels. Examples of workplace cyberbullying include:
- Sending malicious or derogatory emails or messages to a coworker.
- Posting defamatory content or spreading false rumours about someone on social media.
- Sharing inappropriate images or engaging in online harassment through anonymous accounts.
It is important to know that these examples are not the only ones, and mental harassment can take various forms depending on the specific circumstances and individuals involved. Recognizing the signs of mental harassment case is crucial to address and prevent such behavior in the workplace.
What is Employee Harassment Act in India?
The Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act (commonly known as POSH Act) is the primary employee harassment act that addresses the issue in the workplace, specifically sexual harassment. The act is mainly to ensure a safe and secure working environment for women and to prevent any form of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Impact of Mental Harassment
Mental Harassment case has severe consequences for the victims. It can lead to anxiety, depression, fear, and emotional instability. Victims may experience declining job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and motivation. It has also been observed that women experiencing mental harassment at workplace is common.
Prolonged exposure to mental harassment can result in physical health problems, including headaches, insomnia, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, it can hinder career growth, as victims may face difficulties focusing on their work, pursuing opportunities, or building professional relationships.
Resources for Dealing with Mental Harassment at Workplace
Experiencing mental harassment at workplace can be emotionally challenging and psychologically distressing. Individuals who find themselves in such situations must know how to deal with mental harassment at workplace, seek support, and utilize available resources to navigate these difficult circumstances. Here are some support options and resources that can provide assistance and guidance.
1. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs to support their employees’ mental well-being. EAPs typically provide confidential counselling services, referrals to mental health professionals, and resources to help individuals cope with workplace issues, including mental harassment.
2. Counseling Services
Professional counselling services can play a vital role in helping individuals cope with the emotional impact of mental harassment at workplace. Licensed therapists or counsellors trained in workplace issues can provide a safe and supportive environment to discuss experiences, process emotions, and develop effective coping strategies.
3. Legal Helplines and Advocacy Organizations
Several organizations and helplines specialize in providing legal advice and support to individuals facing workplace harassment, including mental harassment. These resources can help individuals understand their legal rights and offer guidance on filing a mental harassment case. Organizations like the National Commission for Women (NCW) and local labour authorities can assist in India.
4. Support Groups and Peer Networks
Joining support groups or connecting with others who have experienced similar workplace challenges can provide a sense of validation, solidarity, and many connections may be facilitated online. Online forums, social media groups, or local community connections.
5. Human Resources Department
Employees facing mental harassment should consider reaching out to their organization’s human resources (HR) department. HR professionals are trained to handle workplace issues, including complaints of harassment. They can provide guidance on the company’s policies and procedures, initiate internal investigations, and take appropriate actions to address the situation.
6. Reporting Platforms and Whistleblower Protection
Some workplaces have established reporting platforms or whistleblower mechanisms to address concerns related to harassment. These platforms allow individuals to report incidents anonymously and ensure confidentiality.
By accessing these support options, individuals can find the guidance, validation, and assistance they need to cope with the impact of mental harassment and take appropriate actions to address the issue in their workplace. Also, individuals can learn habits that will make them mentally strong so that they can create a peaceful workplace for themselves.
Laws and Regulations to Prevent Mental Harassment
To address mental harassment effectively, being aware of the laws and regulations is crucial. In India, several laws protect individuals from mental harassment at workplace, including:
- Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act (2013): This act mandates the establishment of internal complaint committees, defines sexual harassment, and outlines the procedure for filing complaints. It provides a legal framework to address and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
- Mental Harassment IPC Section 509: Mental Harassment at workplace IPC section 509 covers offences related to words, gestures, or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman, including mental harassment. It allows individuals to seek legal remedies. The person responsible for the harassment would be liable to an imprisonment of up to three years.
- Information Technology Act (2000): The IT Act addresses online harassment, cyberbullying, and electronic communication offences that can cause mental harassment. It provides provisions to deal with cybercrime and safeguard individuals from online harassment.
Where and How to Complain Against Mental Harassment?
If you are a victim of mental harassment case, taking appropriate steps to address the issue is crucial. Here are some important actions to consider while filing a complaint against mental harassment at workplace:
- Document Incidents: Maintain a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, and a description of the harassment. This documentation will provide crucial evidence and support your case if you file a complaint.
- Internal Complaint Mechanism: Many organizations have internal complaint mechanisms or grievance cells to address workplace harassment. Consult your employee handbook or HR department to understand the process and file a formal complaint.
- Seek Support: Contact trusted colleagues, friends, or mentors for support and guidance. Discussing the issue with someone can provide emotional support and help you gather different perspectives.
- Legal Consultation: If internal mechanisms fail to provide a satisfactory resolution, consider seeking legal advice from an employment law specialist. They can guide you on your rights, legal options, and the steps to take for a formal complaint or legal action.
- External Authorities: In severe cases, or when internal mechanisms are ineffective, you may need to involve external authorities. This can include reporting the harassment to local labor offices, human rights commissions, or filing a First Information Report (FIR) to the police, depending on the nature of the harassment.
How to Promote a Supportive Work Culture
Promoting a supportive work culture is crucial for preventing and addressing mental harassment at workplace. To achieve this, organizations should establish clear policies against harassment and provide regular training sessions to educate employees about their rights and responsibilities.
Empowering bystanders through training and guidelines enables them to intervene and support victims. Regular communication, feedback, and involving employees in shaping policies create a supportive work culture. Providing employee support programs, such as counselling services and wellness initiatives, emphasizes the importance of mental health.
Lastly, leading by example, holding leaders accountable, and promptly addressing reported incidents set the standard for all employees. By implementing these strategies, organizations can create a supportive work culture prioritizing their employees’ well-being and mental health, fostering a healthier and more productive workplace.
Why Mental Health Should Be Addressed Timely?
Addressing mental harassment at the workplace is essential. By recognizing the signs, understanding the impact, and taking appropriate actions, we can foster a culture that values all employees’ respect, dignity, and well-being. Remember, no one should endure mental harassment; everyone deserves to work in a safe and supportive workplace.
Let’s remember; that we have the power to shape the future of our work environments. By addressing mental harassment head-on, we not only improve the lives of individuals today but also lay the foundation for a more equitable and harmonious workplace for generations to come.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is mental harassment in the workplace?
Mental harassment in the workplace refers to unpleasant behaviour that targets an individual’s mental well-being, causing distress or harm. It includes actions like verbal abuse, humiliation, intimidation, threats, isolation, and manipulation.
What is the proof for mental harassment?
Proving mental harassment typically requires evidence such as documentation of incidents, witness statements, and supporting records like emails or messages. It’s essential to provide a clear pattern of consistent and unwelcome behavior that detrimentally impacts the victim’s mental well-being.
Can I file FIR for mental harassment?
Yes, you can file an FIR for mental harassment if it involves criminal behavior such as threats or severe abuse. For workplace issues, it’s often better to follow internal procedures or seek legal advice tailored to your situation.
What is an example of psychological harassment in the workplace?
Psychological harassment in the workplace can take many forms, but one is unwanted micromanagement. For example, if a manager constantly goes to an employee, inspects every minor detail of work, and provides excessive, unconstructive criticism, it can create a highly stressful situation.
What is emotional harassment in the workplace?
Emotional harassment in the workplace involves actions that undermine an employee’s self-esteem and emotional well-being, such as constant verbal abuse, humiliation, or manipulation. It creates a toxic environment, causing significant stress and mental health issues.
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