2023-11-22 16:45:00
The world of work is often a source of accomplishment and success, but it can also become the scene of great difficulties and discomfort. This professional discomfort, whether of psychological, relational or organizational origin, can have devastating consequences. on mental and physical health of the people concerned. What signs should alert you? Where to find support and how to combat this discomfort? We take stock with Émilie Perrot, psychologist and doctor in occupational psychology.
Definition: what is unhappiness at work?
Unhappiness at work is a portmanteau word that designates a complex reality that we can all face during our careers – whatever our sector of activity. As our experts point out, it encompasses a set of negative emotions and tensions that set in over time in the professional context. It can take many forms, from everyday stress to deeper feelings frustration, isolation or demotivation.
What are the symptoms of suffering at work?
Unhappiness at work can manifest itself in different ways and vary from one person to another… The symptoms are similar to those of burn-out, bore-out or brown-out (minus suicidal thoughts):
- and high level of stress ;
- a feeling of uneasiness ;
- and deep feeling of sadness ;
- a significant and persistent fatigue (particularly linked to sleep problems);
- of the frequent and intense mood swings (affected people become more irritable, anxious or depressed);
- and unusual absenteeism (which may be perceived as an attempt to escape a stressful or unpleasant work environment);
- aloss of commitment and motivation ;
- adrop in productivity (related to difficulty concentrating, lack of interest or fatigue);
- of the relational difficulties with colleagues or superiors ;
- of the physical symptomssuch as a feeling of knots in the stomach, headaches, back pain, gastrointestinal problems or other stress-related physical problems;
- a new and growing inclination towards alcohol, tobacco, certain drugs or medications.
- etc.
“The consequences can be so numerous and diverse that the diagnosis is sometimes difficult to make. We take priority into account the feelings of the people concerned », underlines Emilie Perrot.
Causes: why do I feel bad at work?
The causes of unhappiness at work are varied and can arise ofexternal factors (pressure exerted by customers, technological transformations, societal developments, etc.), internal factors (organizational difficulties of the company, aggressive management, lack of valuation, etc.) or personal factors (boredom, loss of meaning at work, moral or sexual harassment, discrimination, etc.).
Professional pressure and work overload
One of the main sources of unhappiness at work is professional pressureoften accompanied by a work overload. Increasingly short deadlines, increasingly ambitious objectives and increasingly high expectations can lead to a climate of constant stress, impacting the mental health of employees. Companies must therefore absolutely recognize the importance of establishing realistic goals and to promote a good balance between professional and personal life, notes the psychologist.
Lack of recognition and feeling of injustice
The lack of recognition and the sentiment d’injustice are also significant factors of unhappiness at work. “Everyone needs to feel valued and fairly treated to stay motivated and continue to make a lasting commitment,” assures Emilie Perrot. THE recognition policiesTHE positive feedback and the professional development opportunities help build employee confidence and create a more fulfilling work environment.
Interpersonal conflicts and poor communication
Of the interpersonal conflicts and an faulty communication between colleagues or with managers can be major sources of discomfort at work. Strained relationships between colleagues or with management can not only affect the emotional well-being of those involved, but also compromise productivity and team cohesion. “The promotion of open and non-violent communication, proactive conflict resolution and the strengthening of relational skills are therefore essential to limit the damage,” insists Emilie Perrot.
Isolation and lack of support
Feeling isolated at work can of course lead to deep discomfort. Because ? Lack of social support can increase stress and work pressure. To address this, businesses can encourage an inclusive environment that promotes teamwork and solidarity between employees.
Teleworking and well-being at work
Teleworking has had a significant impact on well-being at work, says Emilie Perrot. However the apparent freedom, the great flexibility and the reduction of various nuisances don’t fool anyone... “It is not because we are at home that we are protected from the issues of suffering at work,” maintains the expert.
Contrary to what we still too often think, teleworking promotes social isolation et blurs the line between personal and professional life, which has the effect of accentuating the fatigue and stress of many people! “Everyone finds midday on their doorstep: teleworking can be beneficial for some and harmful for others,” concludes Emilie Perrot.
How to prevent professional unhappiness?
As indicated above, companies have every interest in implementing a work organization that values the well-being of employees. This may include recognizing employee contributions, promoting a work-life balance, and creating an environment where it is entirely safe to ask for help when needed. .
They can also train their employees in psycho-social risk management (not just HR or managers) or provide support resources (support services, counseling programs and other mental health promotion initiatives). Other strategic advice:
- Encourage open and transparent communication (company members should feel comfortable sharing concerns without fear of retaliation).
- To make sure that expectations for performance and behavior are clear.
- Offer professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Encourage taking regular breaks during the working day.
- Involve employees in the decision-making process when possible.
Colleagues, superiors, friends… Who to contact in the event of discomfort at work?
“The first thing to do is to allow yourself to express discomfort et to ask for help », encourage Emilie Perrot.
Start by confiding in yourself to your family or friendsthen don’t hesitate to discuss with your colleagues, with your staff representativeswith your human ressources or with your hierarchy. Communication is a first step towards a positive resolution: expressing your concerns, sharing your emotions and asking for support often allows you to contribute to a more understanding and supportive work environment, assures the expert.
THE mental health counselors where the employee support services can also provide valuable support. Not to mention the support of psychologists which allows you to move away from it all to better understand why and how we got there! Finally, if necessary, turn to your general practitioner to obtain a possible work stoppage.
Good to know : in case of harassment or discriminationif your internal reports are not taken seriously, do not hesitate to consult a labor law professional.
Solutions: what to do when you feel bad at work? How to report certain situations?
” It is essential avoid acting out : there is no point in resigning and leaving everything behind, thinking that the situation will work itself out. Better take a step back by taking paid leave or taking advantage of a work stoppage to take a break and reconnect with your body, then with your emotions and desires,” insists Emilie Perrot.
Start with iidentify the causes of your discomfort : is this linked to an overload of work, to overly aggressive management, to a loss of meaning or to boredom? Confide in someone you trust above, then work step by step to find solutions: define clear and realistic objectives,in accordance with your abilities and limits. This will allow you to reduce your stress, but also to find a feeling of accomplishment on a daily basis.
Help yourself to relaxation techniques such as meditation, sophrology or yoga to find emotional balance. Also invest in hobbies that give you pleasure and well-being. After this time of stopping and refocusing, it’s time to think regarding what’s next… You can start by resuming work by therapeutic part-time to get back on your feet smoothly. Discuss the possibility of a change of position or a change of missions within your company. And if so, explore new professional horizons !
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