Top Signs Your Workplace is Toxic
Working in a hostile environment can be completely draining. You’re constantly confronted with drama and the workplace can feel like total chaos. No workplace is perfect, but if the same issues keep coming up you may be working in a toxic situation. Here are some of the top signs that your workplace is toxic.
1. You’re Being Harassed
Workplace bullying is a major issue in workplaces across Canada and can have a huge impact on an employee. Being repeatedly made fun of, harassed or threatened can create a workplace that is filled with fear and stress.
2. You’re Always Stressed Out
Do you dread going to work each day? Then your workplace is probably unhealthy. A recent survey found that stress is the reason that 1 in 4 Canadians actually decide to leave their job. It can lead to serious mental and physical health issues, which only adds to the toxicity of a workplace. A little bit of stress at work is normal, but when you are overwhelmed by it you have a problem.
3. You’re Overworked
Studies have shown that in most hostile workplaces the employees were overloaded with responsibilities at their job, which ultimately leads to burnout and causes major resentment. A Canadian survey found that 58 per cent of workers felt that they were overworked.
If you know you’re in a toxic workplace, you do have options. One is to consider joining a union. With an advocate in your workplace you can make sure your voice is heard and that your rights are protected. This means you won’t be forced to deal with harassment or more work than you can handle.
You can also reach out to Occupational Health and Safety or the Alberta Human Rights Commission for more information or support. No matter what action you choose to take you should always put your health and safety first. No one should have to work in a toxic environment.
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Do you have any questions about your rights in the workplace or need someone to talk to about your job stress? Contact one of our free labour counsellors at (403) 259-4608 or info@loveyourjob.ca.
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