Professional relationships have a huge impact on our well-being, efficiency, and engagement. Unfortunately, they are not always healthy and supportive. Toxic relationships at work can lead to stress, burnout, and even health problems. It is worth learning how to recognize them and respond in the right way.
What Are Toxic Relationships at Work?
Toxic relationships are those that, instead of supporting, weaken us, provoke fear, guilt, or lower self-esteem. They may concern both supervisor–employee relations and relationships between colleagues. They are often hidden in nature – not immediately visible, but over time they become increasingly burdensome.
Signs of Toxic Relationships
Warning signs include:
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Lack of respect – undermining competence, sarcastic comments, public criticism.
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Manipulation and control – exerting pressure, exploiting professional dependency, withholding information.
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Favoritism and exclusion – dividing the team into “better” and “worse.”
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Passive or open aggression – malicious remarks, ignoring, or outright hostility.
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Constant tension – stress connected with interacting with a particular person or group.
Effects of Toxic Relationships
Working in an unhealthy environment affects not only performance but also health. Long-term exposure to toxic relationships may lead to:
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decreased motivation,
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reduced concentration and efficiency,
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burnout,
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mental health issues (anxiety, depression),
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physical ailments (insomnia, headaches, hypertension).
How to Cope
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Set boundaries – clearly communicate what is acceptable to you and what is not.
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Document situations – record facts, dates, and messages – this may be useful when reporting the problem.
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Talk openly – sometimes the other person may not realize the impact of their behavior.
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Seek support – talk to a trusted colleague, the HR department, or a supervisor.
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Take care of yourself – stress management techniques, a healthy lifestyle, and work-life balance are key.
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Consider changing your environment – if the situation does not improve, the best solution may be changing jobs.
The Role of the Organization
The employer has a huge impact on shaping organizational culture. Promoting open communication, implementing anti-discrimination policies, and creating systems for reporting irregularities can significantly reduce the risk of toxic relationships.