Bullying at Work: What can I do?

Workplace bullying is a pervasive and insidious issue that can profoundly impact an individual's mental health, wellbeing, and professional life. In Australia, the prevalence of workplace bullying is a significant concern, with statistics highlighting its widespread nature and severe consequences. This blog post aims to demystify workplace bullying, explore its various manifestations, shed light on the toll it takes, and provide actionable steps for victims, including how to access crucial professional help through programs like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and WorkCover.

Recognising Workplace Bullying

Defining workplace bullying is crucial for understanding its scope and impact. Safe Work Australia, the national body responsible for work health and safety policy, defines workplace bullying as "repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or a group of workers that creates a risk to health and safety" [1] [2]. This definition underscores two key elements: the behaviour must be repeated and unreasonable. It's not a one-off incident, but a pattern of conduct that, over time, can cause significant harm.

It is equally important to distinguish bullying from legitimate management actions. Reasonable management action carried out in a reasonable way, such as performance management, disciplinary action, or allocating work, is not considered bullying. The distinction lies in the intent and the manner in which actions are taken. If management actions are constructive, fair, and aimed at improving performance or addressing misconduct, they fall outside the definition of bullying.

Workplace bullying can manifest in numerous forms, ranging from overt aggression to subtle, insidious tactics. It's not always easy to identify, as bullies often operate in ways that are difficult to prove or are disguised as legitimate work-related interactions. Some common examples of bullying behaviour include:

• Verbal Abuse: Abusive, insulting, or offensive language, shouting, or yelling.

• Intimidation and Aggression: Threatening behaviour, aggressive posturing, or creating a hostile work environment.

• Exclusion and Isolation: Deliberately excluding a worker from work-related activities, meetings, or social events.

• Unfair Treatment: Assigning meaningless tasks, setting impossible deadlines, or constantly changing work goals without proper justification.

• Undermining Performance: Belittling or humiliating comments, constant criticism, or withholding necessary information or resources.

• Practical Jokes or Hazing: Repeated and unwelcome practical jokes that cause distress or humiliation.

• Manipulation and Sabotage: Spreading rumours, gossiping, or actively undermining a person's work or reputation.

These behaviours, when repeated and unreasonable, contribute to a toxic work environment that can erode an individual's confidence and sense of security.

Bullying and its toll on Mental Health

The impact of workplace bullying on an individual's mental health and wellbeing can be devastating and far-reaching. It extends beyond the workplace, affecting personal relationships, physical health, and overall quality of life. In Australia, workplace bullying accounts for a significant proportion of mental stress claims, with figures ranging from approximately 33.2% to 39.5% of all active workers' compensation claims for mental stress [3] [4]. This highlights the severe psychological consequences experienced by victims.

The psychological toll can include:

• Anxiety and Depression: Persistent feelings of worry, sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): In severe cases, individuals may develop symptoms akin to PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and hyper-vigilance.

• Low Self-Esteem and Confidence: A constant barrage of criticism and undermining can erode an individual's self-worth, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep due to stress and anxiety.

• Increased Stress Levels: Chronic stress can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including headaches, digestive issues, and high blood pressure.

• Social Withdrawal: Victims may withdraw from social interactions, both at work and in their personal lives, due to shame, embarrassment, or a fear of further victimisation.

Professionally, bullying can lead to reduced productivity, absenteeism, and a desire to leave the workplace, impacting career progression and financial stability. The cumulative effect of these impacts can be profound, making it difficult for individuals to function effectively in any aspect of their lives.

What Victims of Bullying Can Do

Recognising that you are being bullied is the first crucial step. It's important to remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Taking action can feel daunting, but there are several pathways to support and recourse.

1. Document Everything

Maintain a detailed record of all bullying incidents. This should include dates, times, locations, what was said or done, who was present, and how you felt or reacted. Keep copies of any relevant emails, messages, or documents. This documentation will be invaluable if you decide to make a formal complaint or seek legal advice.

2. Seek Support from Trusted Individuals

Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or colleague. Sharing your experience can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide emotional support. They may also be able to offer a different perspective or witness to the bullying behaviour.

3. Understand Your Workplace Policies

Familiarise yourself with your organisation's anti-bullying policies and procedures. Most workplaces have a clear process for reporting and addressing bullying. This might involve speaking to your manager, HR department, or a designated contact person.

4. Formal Complaint

If informal approaches are unsuccessful or inappropriate, consider lodging a formal complaint within your organisation. Follow the established procedures and ensure your complaint is in writing, supported by your documentation. 

5. External Bodies

If internal processes fail or are not available, external bodies can provide assistance:

•       Fair Work Commission (FWC): The FWC can deal with applications to stop bullying at work. They can make orders to prevent bullying from continuing.

•       Safe Work Australia/State Work Health and Safety Regulators: These bodies can investigate complaints and ensure employers are meeting their obligations to provide a safe working environment.

Access to Psychology: EAPs and WorkCover

Beyond internal and external complaint mechanisms, professional psychological support is vital for recovery. Two key programs in Australia that can provide this support are Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and WorkCover.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Many employers offer EAPs as a confidential counselling service for employees and their immediate families. EAPs are typically provided by third-party organisations, ensuring confidentiality and impartiality.

Key features of EAPs:

• Confidentiality: EAP counsellors are bound by professional codes of ethics that prioritise confidentiality. Your employer will not have access to the content of your sessions unless you provide explicit written consent. Employers usually only receive de-identified data on overall usage, not individual details. It is important to verify this with your EAP provider.

• Accessibility: EAPs are usually free for employees and can be accessed via a dedicated phone number, website, or app.

• Support: EAPs offer short-term counselling for a range of personal and work-related issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, and workplace conflict.

Accessing an EAP can provide immediate, confidential support to help you cope with the emotional and psychological impact of bullying. For more detailed information about terms of service, contact your EAP provider directly.

WorkCover Programs (Workers' Compensation)

If workplace bullying has led to a psychological injury, you may be eligible to make a workers' compensation claim through WorkCover in your respective state. These programs are designed to provide financial support for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages.

It is crucial to report the injury to your employer and seek medical attention as soon as possible to strengthen your claim.

Brain Care Psychology Tweed Heads accepts EAPs, Workcover QLD and WorkCover NSW

We are proud to partner with various providers to ensure our services are accessible. Brain Care Tweed Heads works both Employment Assistance Programs (EAPs) and WorkCover QLD/NSW. This means that if you are experiencing psychological distress due to workplace bullying, you can access our professional services with the appropriate referrals and claim approvals. Our goal is to help you navigate the complexities of recovery and regain your mental health and confidence.

If you are in Queensland or New South Wales and are struggling with the effects of workplace bullying, please reach out to us. We are here to provide the professional help and support you need to heal and move forward.

References

[1] Safe Work Australia. (n.d.). Bullying. https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/hazards/bullying

[2] Safe Work Australia. (n.d.). Dealing with workplace bullying - a worker's guide. https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/1702/workers-guide-workplace-bullying.pdf

[3] Safe Work Australia. (2025, October 16). Key Work Health and Safety Statistics Australia 2025. https://data.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/insights/key-whs-statistics-australia/latest-release

[4] Australian Public Service Commission. (n.d.). Bullying and harassment. https://www.apsc.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/workforce-information/research-analysis-and-publications/state-service/state-service-report-2024-25/aps-agency-benchmarking/bullying-and-harassment