A toxic workplace is one where the atmosphere, people, or both create negative disruptions to a person’s entire life, even outside of work. In a toxic work environment, employees find it hard to work and grow in their careers because of the pressures created by coworkers, managers, or the company as a whole. 

If you see these signs of a toxic workplace, it could be time to start the new job search.

High turnover rate

A high turnover rate can indicate a workplace does not have a healthy environment, has poor leadership, or has unrealistic expectations of its employees. It can also reveal that employees don’t trust the environment to improve as time goes on.

Unrealistic expectations

Unrealistic expectations can be a result of weak leadership and poor communication about goals, objectives, and strategies. If your boss expects things to be done in an unreasonable time frame or demands your time outside of work, these may be signs it’s time to go.

Trying to meet those unrealistic expectations can lead you to feel unsuccessful despite all of your hard work. This can result in burnout, dissatisfaction, and feeling unappreciated.

Negative impacts in and out of the office

According to a survey of over 5,000 employees across 17 industries in the United States, about 83% of people feel emotionally drained from work. More than 70% reported strongly agreeing that the workplace affects their mental health.

This kind of stress spilling over into your personal life can be a warning sign a work environment is toxic. When feelings of anxiety, depression, and anger persist, it’s time to reevaluate your work-life balance and boundaries.

Finding help

People with mental health conditions like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder have legal rights to reasonable accommodations that can help on the job, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, like being able to schedule work around therapy appointments or a quiet office environment.

Support for your mental health is also available through Valley Oaks Health. Our counselors and support groups are here to help you make your mental health a priority when dealing with toxic work environments or the lifestyle shift of adjusting to a new, healthier job.