Workplace bullying — common and deeply damaging

MOST of us assume that bullying takes place in the schoolyard, but even adults can become victims, especially if it happens in the workplace.

Workplace bullying has a significant impact on an employee's productivity and mental health, and it's more common than one might assume.

A 2019 study published in the journal 'BMC Public Health' found that almost 40 per cent of Malaysian employees had experienced workplace bullying.

Workplace bullying involves a persistent, repetitive pattern of unreasonable and unwanted behaviour by an individual or a group at the workplace with the intention to intimidate and create health and safety risks for employees, says Pantai Hospital Melaka consultant psychiatrist Dr Gayathri K. Kumarasuriar.

There is a clear misuse of power. Workplace bullies can be colleagues, employers, senior staff, junior staff or even external parties like clients, patients or the public

DEEP WOUNDS

The impact on the victim is significant, affecting both his physical and mental well-being.

"Bullying essentially erodes a person's self-esteem and confidence, leading them to self-doubt, isolation and frustration," says Dr Gayathri.

It can also cause symptoms such as severe stress, anxiety, depression and even post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.

Prolonged bullying can have such a significant impact on victims that they may even resort to substance abuse to cope, self harm or attempt suicide.

What's important is that the victim acts before the bullying escalates, adds Dr Gayathri.

"If the bully is your boss, report to human resources at your company's headquarters. If the bully is a co-worker or senior staff member, report to your boss and HR."

If your complaint is downplayed, make a police report and seek legal advice. If the bullying persists and you are not supported, just leave, she explains.

"No job is worth sacrificing your peace, health, happiness and self-esteem."

However, it's important to remember that a single episode of unreasonable behaviour or normal workplace disagreements are not bullying.

"Bullying is behaviour that's persistent or repetitive and done with a malicious intent — to hurt the victim and undermine his self esteem."

It's crucial to reclaim one's confidence after being subjected to bullying, says Dr Gayathri.

Focus on your strengths and accomplishments and work towards becoming the best version of yourself.

WORKPLACE BULLYING

Verbal
Name-calling, insulting, shouting, unjustified criticism.

Physical
Hitting, spitting, shoving.

Psychological
Mobbing — exclusion from work events, setting unreasonable or constantly changing deadlines, changing rosters/leave applications to cause inconvenience

Social
Gossiping, spreading rumours, damaging reputation.

Cyberbullying
Using technology to threaten, embarrass or insult.

Doxing
Publishing private information online to intimidate or humiliate.

Litigation abuse
Using the law to control, threaten or scare.

• Those perceived as "different" — neurodivergent individuals (autism, ADHD/or in terms of appearance, clothing, interests, social status).
• Timid/low self-esteem — quiet, non-assertive, poor communication skills or having few friends.
• Distinctive characteristics — people who stutter, have tics or noticeable physical traits.
• Identity differences — gender or sexual orientation.

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https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/heal/2025/10/1290407/health-workplace-bullying-%E2%80%94-common-and-deeply-damaging