Bullying and harassment at work

No one should have to dread going to work because of how a colleague or manager treats them. What you are experiencing matters, and support is available.

What it is

Workplace bullying is repeated, unreasonable behaviour directed at someone that undermines their dignity, safety or work performance, this can include humiliation, exclusion, unfair criticism or intimidation. Harassment includes unwanted conduct related to a person's characteristics, such as sex, race or disability, including unwanted sexual attention. Both are serious, and are not simply "personality clashes" or "being too sensitive."

Signs to notice

• Repeated criticism that feels personal rather than constructive, often in front of others
• Being excluded, undermined or given impossible tasks deliberately
• Unwanted comments, jokes, touching or attention of a sexual nature
• Feeling anxious, dreading work, or physically unwell before shifts or meetings with a particular person
• Colleagues witnessing the same pattern but staying silent out of fear

What helps

• Keep a written record of incidents, dates, what happened, and any witnesses, this supports any formal process later
• Where it feels safe, name the behaviour directly and ask for it to stop
• Report the behaviour through your workplace's HR or grievance channel, you have a right to a safe workplace
• Reach out to a trusted colleague, manager or EAP counsellor for support, you do not have to handle this alone
• Prioritise your own wellbeing alongside any formal process, rest, connect with support outside work, and consider counselling
• Remember that reporting is not overreacting, workplaces have a duty to provide a safe environment, and raising a concern is a legitimate step
• If a colleague confides in you about their experience, listen without judgement and support them to access help

When to reach out for help

Reach out as soon as the behaviour starts affecting your wellbeing, safety or ability to work, you do not need to wait until it becomes severe. If you feel unsafe at any point, or the harassment includes threats or physical conduct, this needs urgent attention.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors offer confidential support and can help you think through reporting options. Your organisation's HR department can guide you through formal grievance processes.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.