In today’s fast-paced professional environment, defined by high demands, constant availability, and diminishing personal boundaries, mental health in the workplace has become a topic of critical importance. Two of the most common phenomena affecting psychological well-being at work are burnout syndrome and workplace bullying (mobbing). Although these issues are increasingly discussed, many individuals fail to recognize the signs early on, particularly because "everything still seems to function" at least externally.
What Is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of chronic emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged occupational stress and the persistent feeling that environmental demands outweigh personal resources.
Common Causes of Burnout Include:
- Chronic overload – unrealistic deadlines, excessive tasks, lack of rest
- Lack of control – minimal influence over workflow, priorities, or goals
- Insufficient recognition – when effort goes unnoticed or unappreciated
- Value conflicts – tasks conflicting with personal beliefs and ethics
- Role ambiguity – unclear responsibilities or shifting expectations
- Poor interpersonal relationships – conflict, isolation, or lack of support
- Monotony – repetitive, unchallenging tasks with no opportunity for growth
- Digital overload – constant availability, emails, and messages outside working hours
- Perfectionism – difficulty accepting mistakes or personal limits
Individuals most vulnerable to burnout are typically highly responsible, driven, perfectionistic, and reluctant to set limits or ask for help.
Burnout Symptoms May Include:
- Persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches
- Reduced concentration and work performance
- Irritability, apathy, and emotional detachment
- Loss of motivation, even for previously fulfilling tasks
- Cynicism toward colleagues or the organization
- Physical complaints without a clear medical cause
- Social withdrawal and feelings of hopelessness
Burnout is not a temporary slump. It is a serious condition that affects emotional resilience and long-term functioning, requiring appropriate intervention.
What Is Workplace Bullying (Mobbing)?
Workplace bullying involves systematic, long-term psychological harassment, such as humiliation, exclusion, discrediting, or open hostility directed at an employee.
Types of Mobbing:
- Horizontal – among coworkers on the same hierarchical level
- Vertical – from superiors to subordinates (or vice versa, though less commonly)
Common Bullying Tactics Include:
- Removing responsibilities or overwhelming with unmanageable tasks
- Excluding from meetings or decision making
- Belittling, mocking, or constantly criticizing
- Spreading rumors or damaging reputation
- Undermining career advancement opportunities
Who Is at Risk?
Although no one is entirely immune, bullying most frequently targets individuals who are:
- Empathetic, conscientious, and reserved
- New to the organization or in junior positions
- Reluctant to create conflict or defend themselves
- Highly competent, dedicated, and principled
Ironically, the very qualities that contribute to professional excellence can provoke envy, insecurity, or a desire to control in others triggering mobbing behaviors.
Psychological Consequences of Mobbing May Include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depressive symptoms
- Decreased self-esteem and confidence
- Social withdrawal and feelings of helplessness
- Psychosomatic symptoms (e.g., fatigue, pain, GI issues)
How to Protect Your Mental Health at Work
- Set boundaries – You are not obligated to say "yes" to every task.
- Document problematic behavior – Keep a written record of incidents.
- Seek institutional support – HR, supervisors, or employee representatives may help.
- Speak with a mental health professional – Therapy can provide clarity, validation, and strategies for change.
- Don’t internalize the problem – Burnout and bullying are not signs of personal failure, but symptoms of dysfunctional environments.
Caring for your mental health is not a luxury, it is a prerequisite for sustainable productivity and personal well-being. Recognizing early warning signs and seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness.
If You Recognize Yourself in This Text...
If you’ve been feeling drained, constantly on edge, or increasingly detached from your work, don’t wait until the situation escalates. Consulting a psychiatrist or psychotherapist can help you make sense of what you’re experiencing and identify the right steps toward recovery.
You deserve to thrive in your workplace not merely survive.