Good evening, everyone.
Here’s the stats showing the impact of workplace bullying. It highlights how bullying affects mental health, career growth, and productivity.
- 70% of victims experience anxiety or depression.
- 50% feel their career growth is negatively affected.
- 45% report reduced productivity.
So , I stand here today with a message I wish none of us ever had to hear: bullying doesn’t always stop after school. Sometimes, it follows us into the places we least expect—like our workplaces. For those of us living with disabilities, the workplace can be a space for growth, connection, and purpose, but sadly, it can also become a place of misunderstanding and mistreatment.
Let me be clear—bullying in the workplace is not just a “bad joke” or a “harmless comment.” It’s a serious issue that impacts mental health, careers, and lives. Tonight, I want to share some truths, some tools, and most importantly, some hope.
The Reality Of Workplace Bullying
Did you know that nearly 1 in 3 people with disabilities face bullying at work? According to a 2023 survey by a workplace charity, this can take many forms:
- Being ignored or excluded from meetings and social activities.
- Facing unfair criticism or being judged more harshly than others.
- Hearing comments or jokes about their disability.
- Having their abilities underestimated, as if their condition defines their potential.
It’s not just frustrating—it’s damaging. Workplace bullying can leave deep scars that affect not only our self-esteem but also our ability to perform and thrive.
Here are some sobering numbers to think about:
- 70% of bullying victims report mental health struggles like anxiety or depression.
- 50% feel their careers suffer, as they’re overlooked for promotions or not given the same opportunities as their peers.
- 45% report a drop in productivity, which often leads to further criticism, creating a vicious cycle.
Now, let’s pause and look at the bigger picture. Bullying doesn’t just hurt individuals—it hurts teams, organizations, and the workplace environment as a whole.
| Impact of Workplace Bullying | Percentage of Affected Employees |
|---|---|
| Increased anxiety and depression | 70% |
| Career growth negatively affected | 50% |
| Lower productivity | 45% |
My Personal Story
I know what it feels like because I’ve lived it. When I started my career, I noticed how some colleagues changed their behavior after learning about my epilepsy. They assumed I couldn’t handle certain tasks. They made comments about “being careful” around me, as if I might suddenly become a liability. And then there were the whispers—those quiet remarks you’re not supposed to hear but always do.
At first, it crushed me. I thought maybe I wasn’t cut out for this. Maybe they were right. But then I realized something: their opinions weren’t about me. They were about their lack of understanding. I couldn’t control how they saw me, but I could control how I saw myself.
So I chose to rise above it. I chose to let my work speak for itself. Every time someone doubted me, I worked harder, not to prove them wrong but to prove to myself that I could do it. And let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. But it was worth it.
The True Cost Of Bullying
Why should we care so much about this issue? Because bullying leaves lasting effects, not just on the individual but on the workplace as a whole:
- For the individual: Bullying impacts mental health, confidence, and motivation. It can lead to feelings of isolation, hopelessness, and even physical health issues from prolonged stress.
- For the team: When bullying happens, team morale suffers. People feel less connected, less supported, and less motivated.
- For the company: Businesses lose valuable talent when people leave due to bullying. Productivity drops, innovation slows, and the workplace culture becomes toxic.
What Can You Do?
If you’re facing bullying at work because of your disability, here’s what I want you to remember: you are not alone, and you are not powerless.
- Speak up. Sometimes bullying continues because people think they can get away with it. Report it to a trusted manager or your HR department. They’re there to help.
- Document everything. Write down every incident—what happened, when, where, and who was involved. Having a clear record makes your case stronger.
- Find support. Whether it’s through friends, family, or a support group, talking to someone who understands can make all the difference.
And if you’re an employer or colleague, ask yourself this: what kind of workplace do you want to be a part of? The answer should be one where everyone feels respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.
A Vision For Change
Imagine a workplace where differences aren’t just accepted—they’re celebrated. A workplace where people with disabilities aren’t seen as “less than” but as equal contributors to the team. This isn’t a dream; it’s something we can achieve if we work together.
We all have a role to play. Whether it’s standing up against bullying, offering support to a colleague, or simply being kind, your actions matter.
My Final Message
If you’re being bullied, I want you to know this: your value is not determined by the opinions of others. You are more than your disability. You are capable, strong, and deserving of respect.
Rise above it. Let your work, your attitude, and your heart show the world who you truly are. Because no one can dim your light unless you let them.
Thank you. Let’s stand together to build workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected.
