Understanding workplace issues

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.

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How workplace issues can negatively impact you

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 can Seed Psychology 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.

Through connection,
change is possible

Our compassionate team at Seed Psychology is here to help you regain your wellbeing and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. Connect with us to book an appointment with a psychologist in our Brunswick clinic or via telehealth Australia-wide.

Fostering resilience in Brunswick and beyond for over 16 years

Freqeuently asked questions

  • Therapy is a shared process. While your Psychologist brings expertise, insight, and support, the most meaningful outcomes often come when you’re actively engaged in your own growth. This means being open and honest during sessions, reflecting between appointments, and being willing to try new approaches-even when it feels challenging. Therapy can take time, and progress isn’t always linear, but your commitment matters. Here are some ways to support your journey:

    • Be open and honest with your Psychologist, even (and especially) if something feels hard to say.
    • Give feedback if something doesn’t feel right or if your needs change.
    • Stay open to exploring new ideas and practices within a safe, supportive space.
    • Take notes or keep a journal to reflect on insights or patterns between sessions.
    • Try to attend regularly-consistency is key to building momentum.
    • Be kind to yourself. Growth can be uncomfortable at times, but that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.
    • Invest in your wellbeing outside of therapy by building habits and routines that nourish you.

    Therapy is a courageous act of self-investment. By showing up and staying engaged, you create space for real and lasting change.

  • Our experienced team of Psychologists offers warm, evidence-based support that’s collaborative, inclusive and grounded in genuine understanding. We provide individual, relationship or family therapy for a wide range of concerns. Additionally, we offer couples therapy, online therapy, psychological assessments (including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Assessments), and workshops.

  • There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long therapy takes. At Seed Psychology, we tailor each intervention to your individual needs, goals, and circumstances. Some people come to therapy to navigate a specific challenge, like managing anxiety, adjusting to a life transition, or processing a relationship difficulty. Others may be seeking deeper emotional growth or support for longer-term concerns. Because of this, the number of sessions can vary. Many clients attend between 6 and 18 sessions, though some need fewer and others continue for longer. Your Psychologist will discuss an estimated treatment plan with you after your initial assessment and continue checking in over time to ensure it feels helpful and aligned with your goals. Ultimately, the pace and duration of therapy is something we navigate together, guided by your progress, preferences, and what feels right for you.

  • Consultations with a psychologist last between 50 and 60 minutes.

  • At Seed Psychology, your safety and wellbeing are our highest priorities. While we are here to support you through regular therapy sessions, we are not a crisis service and may not be available outside of scheduled appointments. If you or someone you care about is in immediate danger, experiencing a mental health crisis, or needs urgent support, it’s important to seek help straight away through the appropriate emergency or crisis services. You can find a list of trusted organisations and services here that can provide immediate support when you need it most.