Understanding and reacting in front of workplace harassment

The stalking is defined as behaviors repeated, abusive, or unwanted that create an environment intimidating, hostile, degrading, demeaning, or offensive for the person who is the victim. It may have harmful consequences On the sanity, the emotional well-being And the quality of life.

At work, this type of behavior can be carried out by a colleague, supervisor, or any other individual in a professional relationship with the victim.

Workplace harassment, a widespread reality

According to the Workplace harassment barometer 2022 — Qualisocial x Ipsos :

1 out of 3 employees Claims to have been a victim of harassment
4 out of 10 employees have witnessed situations of harassment
Among the victims, 3 out of 4 say the harassment occurred in the presence of witnesses (76%), mostly colleagues (45%)
In these situations, 53% of witnesses did not react, while 25% reacted afterwards and only 22% at the time

These figures show that bullying is frequent and often visible, but that witnesses lack the resources or the points of reference to intervene effectively. This highlights the urgency of raise awareness and to set up support mechanisms to encourage action and protect victims.

Signs to know and recognize in a victim

The symptoms of a person who is a victim of harassment can vary depending on the nature, duration, and frequency of the incidents, but some Common signs allow victims to be identified:

Behavioral changes : withdrawal, anxiety or aggressiveness
Sleep problems : insomnia, nightmares, circadian rhythm disorders
Emotional difficulties : sadness, anger, fear, fear, frustration, shame
Social isolation : withdrawal from colleagues, friends and family
Decreased self-esteem : doubts about one's skills and personal worth
Physical problems : headache, digestive disorders, muscle pain
Affected professional performance : delay, recurring errors, forgotten files
Avoidance behaviors : avoid certain people or places
Excessive use of substances : alcohol, drugs or others to manage stress

These signs are not comprehensive and may vary from person to person.

How to support and intervene as a witness

Listening and speaking

Offer a attentive and empathetic ear can be extremely beneficial for the victim. It is essential to take an approach delicate and respectful.

Some tips for supporting someone who is a victim of harassment:

Choosing the right time and the right place : a quiet and private place for the victim to feel at ease
Be empathetic : show that you understand your situation and listen actively
Use non-judgmental language : remain neutral, encourage and value the person
Be attentive to your needs : ask for what she needs to feel supported and respect her limits
Breaking isolation : propose social activities to avoid withdrawal
Offer support : remind them that you are there to listen to them, support them and help them find solutions
Respecting confidentiality : do not disclose information without consent
Encourage to seek help : advise a qualified professional or a specialized organization

By adopting compassion, respect and support, a witness can play a key role in the victim's recovery.

Limits of the role of witness

Witnesses to harassment may encounter some limitations:

Limited perception : not knowing all the details of the situation
Fear of reprisals : fear of being targeted in turn
Uncertainty about how to act : not knowing how to intervene without making the situation worse
Social or professional pressures : fear of not being taken seriously or of losing a job
Lack of resources or support : lack of internal policy or support
Concern for his safety : fear for physical, emotional, or professional safety
Social and cultural norms : some cultures minimize harassment and influence bystander reaction

Despite these limitations, witnesses can alert, support and contribute to creating a safe environment. It is also essential that they take care of their own emotional well-being.

How to (re) act when you are harassed

It is fundamental to ask for help and to protect their emotional well-being:

Boosting self-esteem : daily gratitude exercises to build resilience
Relaxation and breathing techniques : managing stress and anxiety
Positive self-dialogue : encourage and reassure yourself to fight negative thoughts
Knowledge and respect for your limits : knowing how to say no and establishing healthy barriers
Grounding techniques and mindfulness : stay connected to the present and reduce the impact of negative emotions

These practices make it possible to reduce the psychological impact of bullying, to strengthen self-confidence and to feel more free and combative.

Never minimize harassment

Let it be moral or sexual, harassment should never be ignored. Take action, report and support is crucial for creating a safer and respectful work environment. Everyone's voice can make a difference.