Thursday, September 5, 2024
We all know there are serious emotional and psychological problems among some people, and we all know (I hope) that there are some work environments that range from unpleasant to horrible.
However, I’d also point out that these two phrases are vastly overused and tossed around as if they explain everything: “mental health issues” and “toxic work environments.” A person who declines accountability or lacks discipline isn’t necessarily suffering a “mental health issue,” nor is an athlete who’s having a bad day or is in a slump. And just because the boss is demanding that people meet deadlines and performance goals doesn’t meant that the work environment is “toxic.”
When these terms are used so loosely—and often as excuses for personal failure or even discomfort—they demean the real problems of people who are in true need of our help.