Understanding workplace issues
How workplace issues can negatively impact you
In many cases, the workplace is where different personalities, communication styles, ideas and opinions come together and interact. Despite our wishes to have positive relationships with work colleagues, these differences sometimes cause tension between people and lead to distress and decreased job satisfaction. Work can be demanding and stressful even in the absence of any additional issues. Unfortunately, some workers will also experience added challenges such as harassment, bullying or discrimination.
Many people have some sort of issue with their job – be they minor quibbles or substantial moral concerns. It can be difficult to determine which issues to raise with others and when the issue must be resolved within ourselves. Some employees may feel under-stimulated or overqualified, undervalued or overworked. Changes in roles, expectations or workload can also be difficult to adjust to. Sensing a lack of trust or support from co-workers or bosses can also be troubling. For these reasons and many others, some employees experience low job satisfaction and may struggle with their tasks and performance.
Given that many people spend more time at work than with their loved ones, workplace issues can begin to overwhelm us and negatively impact other aspects of life. Similarly, stressors in our personal lives can also make it more difficult to focus at work. It is important for ourselves, our co-workers and the people in our personal lives that we resolve issues that arise in the workplace.
Common workplace issues
Issues that employees may face include:
- interpersonal conflict
- bullying
- discrimination
- low motivation
- harassment
- low performance
- poor job fit
- job insecurity
Research has found that these issues are associated with increased employee strain and burnout, as well as diminished levels of confidence and self-esteem. Unfair treatment in the workplace has also been linked to increased rates of psychological disorders. This means that workplace issues can lead to poorer performance, decreased life satisfaction, increased stress and job loss. Each of these can contribute to or exacerbate existing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. There is also a large body of evidence which suggests that stress can result in physical health issues as well, including heart attacks, sleep issues, high blood pressure, muscle tension and weight loss or gain.
Some jobs by their nature are particularly stressful or demanding. It can be useful to learn strategies to help cope with this reality. Meditation and other calming techniques can help us to stay grounded throughout the day.
How Seed Psychology can help
Treatment will vary depending on the nature of the workplace issues being experienced and your response to them. Our highly skilled and experienced psychologists will work with you in-session to treat depression, anxiety and other mental health issues that stem from work-related stress. These sessions aim to teach you healthy coping skills that you can use to better manage workplace issues. Identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts often results in improved mood and overall well-being. We can also help you to build more assertive communication skills and improved conflict resolution skills. These techniques can help you minimise workplace issues and regain your sense of wellbeing.
Contact us now to make an appointment.
Evening and weekend appointments are available.
