Everyone has a bad day at work now and then. And even the most relaxed workplace can experience tension when a big project is due. But if you find yourself dreading work more often than not, you might be in a toxic workplace. Here’s how to tell if your job is harming your mental health.

You’re Not Taken Seriously

In a toxic workplace, most people’s opinions simply don’t matter. There’s a small inner circle making all the decisions, and everyone else is ignored or even belittled. If you aren’t being taken seriously at work, it may be time to go.

There’s a Lack of Accountability

A healthy workplace has a system of accountability for everyone. If no one is holding your management team accountable, though, there isn’t much you can do. They might promise changes and not follow through, or simply tell you that it’s their way or the highway. Without oversight, you’re at the whims of management without recourse, which is a toxic place to be.

You Have to Read Minds

Workplaces need structure, organization, and a clear set of expectations. Otherwise, you’re left to guess at what you need to do. If you’re expected to read your supervisor’s mind, you are being set up to fail. And when issues inevitably arise, no one is quite sure what to do about them. This can easily turn any workplace toxic.

Mind reading often goes hand in hand with secrecy. You don’t necessarily need to know all the ins and outs of every corporate decision. But in general, you should know where the company is going and how your job fits into the bigger picture. You should also have the information you need to do your job, from your supervisor’s office hours to where to report safety violations or file a complaint.

Bullying

You might think of bullying as something that happens on school playgrounds, but it can also occur in the workplace. Demeaning language, harassment, name calling, and threats of firing are all signs of workplace bullying. Everyone gets feedback now and then that is hard to hear, but it should be presented professionally alongside an action plan to help you succeed.

Lack of Stability

Many workplaces are dynamic and busy, with ever-changing projects and business needs. But there should be an overall stability that runs through the organization. If there is high staff turnover, constantly changing expectations, or a general disorganized feeling, it can quickly become toxic.

A toxic workplace can wreak havoc on your mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. But you don’t need to let it get to that point. If you see signs of your job becoming toxic, it might just be time to find a new role.

Looking for a New Position?

If you’re ready for your next career move, let The Resource put our experience to work for you. Through the entire hiring process, we’re here to help you find and land just the right position. Apply online or call your local office to get started.