Workplace Bullying

Any behaviour that’s directed towards and individual or group of people in the workplace with the intent to humiliate, threaten, undermine or victimise is workplace bullying. It can take many forms including, psychological, verbal and even physical abuse.

Behaviours include, but are not limited to:

• Verbal abuse (Putdowns and ridicule)
• Making fun of you, or your work (Including: sex, family, race or culture, sexuality, education or socioeconomic background)
• Isolating or excluding you or people from situations
• Intimidation (making you fearful or afraid to work)
• Purposely withholding information you require
• Teasing, mocking or regularly making someone the brunt of a joke
• Displaying material the is inappropriate or offensive
• Spreading malicious gossip, rumours or innuendo

There are a variety of reasons that cause individuals to bully others in the workplace; however these are unacceptable behaviours that require action. The consequences of workplace bullying impact both the direct victims as well as the people around them including family, co-workers and friends.

Effects of Workplace Bullying

While individual reactions vary, typical effects include:

• Feelings of being stressed, anxious, depressed or scared
• Reduction in confidence or self-belief
• Activities outside of work affected: study, relationships etc.
• Loss of trust for your employer or workmates
• Physical symptoms such as sleep problems and head aches
• High levels of absenteeism
• Impaired ability to make decisions or panic attacks
• Concentration problems, inability to work

Psychological Treatments

Psychological treatments are proven to help people with their issues by helping them to develop better coping skills and change negative patterns of thinking so that they can deal better with life’s conflicts and stresses.

Psychological therapies can help a person to recover and can also prevent issues from reoccurring. Psychological treatments can include Relaxation Skills, Psychoeducation, Psychological Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Inter-Personal Therapy (IPT), Behaviour Therapy, and Hypnosis.

Medicare

Medicare rebates are available to those who are eligible. Rebates can be paid directly into your bank account when sessions are paid for using cash, cheque or EFTPOS.

How to Get Help

To find out more about workplace bullying or to make an appointment with our psychologists for clients in Maribyrnong, Bayside suburbs or all over Melbourne, please feel free to contact us on 1300 668 256