Success at work is measured in several ways. Hitting productivity targets, achieving financial goals, completing projects on time—these are some of the ways employees know their progress. However, toxic work environments can lead to increased stress and anxiety, decreased work productivity and low morale. Recently, the Oracle and Workplace Intelligence, an HR research and advisory firm, conducted a study across more than 12,000 employees, managers, HR leaders and C-level executives in 11 countries, including 929 respondents in the UAE. The firm found that stress and anxiety has negatively impacted the mental health of 86% of the UAE workforce, causing more stress (41%), a lack of work-life balance (39%), burnout (29%), depression (33%) and loneliness (19%).

While it is rarely an easy decision to leave a job, there are often telltale signs you are stuck in a toxic culture. 

The following are some common indicators of a toxic workplace:

• Harassment 

• Not respecting boundaries 

• Unrealistic expectations from employees 

• Lack of recognition and appreciation

As mentioned above, each of these factors can make working circumstances stressful for employees and lead to significant physical and mental health implications.

How Does a Toxic Workplace Impact Mental Health?

A toxic workplace, or a toxic employer, can have a variety of effects on your mental health. Let’s look at six specific ways and how to deal with it - 

1. Anxiety

Yes, stress is an unavoidable aspect of most occupations, as are deadlines and the need to perform well – this is all perfectly natural.  However, worry and anxiety should not be triggered by your coworkers.

2. Depression

Working in a toxic workplace can cause you to become depressed. Persistent negativity prevents you from developing positive feelings about your work and the people around you.

3. Negative Contemplation

We have a tendency to hold on to unfavourable events in our lives. It's difficult to let go of such things. When you're stuck in a terrible situation all day, it's difficult not to replay the day in your thoughts.  

4. Inner Critic Rises

Working in an unhealthy environment might make you forget how great you actually are. It's extremely difficult to accomplish your job well in a hostile work environment. Furthermore, it can be challenging when your managers or bosses don't give you positive feedback about your work.

5. Inevitable Burnout

Burnout refers to a state of mental and physical tiredness. Even the concept of turning on your computer seems inconceivable. A negative workplace can sap your life force. There is nothing to recharge with. 

6. Poor Sleep

Anxiety and stress can affect your sleep pattern after you experience a toxic environment. You may have tried just about every sleeping product available in your desperate attempt to achieve a good night's sleep.

How to Protect Your Mental Health in a Toxic Work Culture?

Here are some survival tips if you're working in a toxic workplace - 

1. Establish a Self-Care Routine

Take a few minutes for yourself during your workday, even if workaholism is encouraged. Listen to an encouraging song or podcast or do some stretching exercises.

2. Start Thinking About Your Exit Strategy Now

Update your professional social media page and reach out to your network. Create a timeline for when you'd like to leave your current employment and start applying for jobs.

3. Respect Your Limitations

Set reasonable boundaries for your professional responsibilities. Consider turning off your work phone at a specific time each day and replying to emails during business hours. Promote effective communication, both verbally and in writing.

4. Join Social Support Groups

While it may not always be possible to be friends with your coworkers while working in a toxic environment, maintaining a professional working relationship with them can be quite advantageous.

What Should Organisations Do to Help Employees’ Mental Health?

Promoting awareness and normalising mental health or illness is the first step toward creating a workplace that supports employees' mental health. The companies must provide resources to help employees understand more about mental health and mental health disorders. They need to equip them with information on how and where to seek help. Employees are more likely to feel comfortable talking freely about mental health and reach out to managers or other coworkers if they're having trouble.

If your organisation is taking the following measures, it's working towards setting up a mental health-friendly environment. 

1. Encourage employee social support through organised support groups that meet on a regular basis

2. Creating an anonymous channel through which employees can inform HR or supervisors they are experiencing excessive stress and require assistance

3. Problem-solving and effective communication training should be provided 

4. Make sure the employee mental health coverage and wellness resources are up to date and accessible

If you find that you are still experiencing distressful symptoms and that they are interfering with your functioning, it may be a good idea to speak to a therapist who can help you learn additional strategies for coping. Despite having done all you can if nothing seems to make you feel better, it might be time to consider the possibility of removing yourself from the toxic environment and looking for a more fulfilling job.