How to Deal With a Hostile Work Environment

Working in a hostile environment can result in feelings of frustration and anger.

Working in a hostile environment can harm you emotionally, physically and mentally. It can even put you at greater risk for heart disease, depression, cancer, anxiety and a number of other ailments. Northwestern National Life reports that 25 percent of employees view their jobs as the number one stressor in their lives. But even if you're working in a hostile environment, you don't have to let stress take over your life.

Things You'll Need

• Journal
• Radio or CDs

Instructions

1. Acknowledge and accept that you are working in a hostile environment. Being in denial about the stress you are feeling will increase the health and mental effects of working in a hostile environment. Talk with friends and family about the negative treatment to gain their perspective on the issues.

2. 

   A nature walk can provide solace and an escape from stress at work.

   Discover methods of coping with the stress outside the workplace. Cope with stress in healthy ways, such as developing a hobby, eating healthy foods and exercising. Learn to sooth emotional pain by listening to relaxing music, taking a walk or expressing your feelings in a journal.

3. 

   Workplace associates can help reduce stress.

   Strengthen your support network. Having a strong professional relationship with a fellow worker can give you a sense of encouragement and support. A trusted coworker can help you ward off feelings of isolation and loneliness and may even make you a less visible target. You and your partner can help each other learn new skills, vouch for each another and assist each other when the work load gets heavy.

4. Schedule a meeting with the manager or human resources department to confront the hostility directly. Give specific details and provide evidence the about hostile treatment. Give positive suggestions about how the problem might be solved.

5. Look for signs of improvement. If the environment becomes noticeably less hostile, forgive past behavior and remain professional. If the environment stays the same or worsens, don't lose patience. Stay optimistic and focus on a higher goal. Although you are working in a hostile environment, your job can be a stepping stone to better opportunities.

6. Search for a new job. Don't get trapped in a hostile work environment. Build your skills, update your resume and obtain more education if necessary. Volunteer on your days off to gain more experience or train to get certified in your chosen profession. Network through professional associations or organizations and make cold calls at establishments where you would like to work.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that certain personality types are more aggressive and dominating.

• Avoid engaging in workplace gossip. This is likely to worsen a hostile work environment.

References

• "National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health: Stress at Work"
• "Trust Guide: Stress Management"
• "The Institute for Management Excellence: Bullying in the Workplace"
• "Self Growth: How to Cope in an Hostile Environment"
• "CNN Living: Staying Sane in a Negative Work Environment"