Psychologist Anna Heal

Thank you for reaching out, Lila. It is deeply concerning to hear about the persistent anxiety and panic attacks you are experiencing in your new job, especially in a context where you suspect workplace mobbing. This situation, characterized by constant tension and subtle hostility, is a significant psychological stressor that can profoundly impact mental health and job performance. It is crucial to recognize that your feelings of isolation and self-doubt are common reactions to such an environment, and you are not overreacting. Workplace mobbing involves systematic psychological harassment that can lead to trauma, and addressing it requires a multi-faceted approach to protect your well-being.

First, it is essential to validate your own experience and acknowledge the reality of the situation. Keeping a detailed journal of incidents, including dates, times, individuals involved, and specific behaviors, can help you objectively assess the patterns and provide documentation if needed. This practice can also counteract feelings of self-doubt by creating a tangible record. Concurrently, prioritizing self-care and stress management is vital. Given your anxiety and panic attacks, incorporating daily grounding techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation, can help regulate your nervous system. Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life, ensuring adequate rest, nutrition, and physical activity, can bolster your resilience against the ongoing stress.

Seeking professional support from a therapist who specializes in workplace trauma or occupational stress is highly recommended. Therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in helping you manage anxiety and reframe negative thought patterns related to the mobbing. Additionally, trauma-informed therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), may be beneficial if you are experiencing symptoms akin to post-traumatic stress. A therapist can also assist you in developing assertive communication skills to navigate interactions with colleagues, though in mobbing situations, direct confrontation is often not advisable and could escalate the issue.

Exploring practical workplace strategies is another critical step. If your organization has a human resources department or policies against harassment, you may consider a confidential inquiry about reporting procedures, but be aware that this can sometimes lead to retaliation. It is often wise to first seek legal or union advice to understand your rights and protections. Focusing on building external support networks outside of work, such as trusted friends, family, or support groups for workplace bullying, can reduce feelings of isolation. Regarding job performance, it may help to concentrate on tasks within your control and document your achievements to maintain a sense of competence and provide evidence of your work if your performance is questioned.

Ultimately, while coping strategies are important, it is also necessary to realistically assess the sustainability of your position in that environment. In some cases, planning an exit strategy may be the healthiest long-term option to preserve your mental health. Remember, enduring psychological harassment is not a requirement for employment, and your well-being must come first. Please consider reaching out to a licensed psychologist in your area for personalized guidance, as they can provide tailored support for your specific circumstances.