Relationships at work

The workplace is more than just a place where tasks are completed. It is a social structure in which people with different personalities, expectations, and needs come together. These relationships can be a source of strength and motivation — but they can also cause significant stress.

When colleagues are systematically excluded, devalued, or overlooked, this is referred to as mobbing. Those affected often experience fear, helplessness, and a loss of self-esteem. Mobbing is not only an individual problem, but also poisons the entire work environment and can lead to lasting stress for everyone involved. Mobbing is referred to as bossing, when it originates from a superior. It involves an unequal power relationship in which the boss abuses his position. The consequences for employees can be serious psychological or even physical effects.

Hierarchies are present in many  organisations. They are necessary for companies, but also bring conflict potential with them. An authoritarian leadership style, lack of recognition, or unrealistic expectations from supervisors, can create pressure and lead to burnout. Likewise, unclear responsibilities and a feeling of lacking influence can lead to frustration. Stress often arises from the feeling of being at the mercy of circumstances. As employees get older, they may feel less wanted in the company.

Different personalities meet in the workplace: communicative people, who enjoy interaction, and reserved individuals, who need more privacy. While some openly address conflicts, others avoid any confrontation. These differences can be enriching—but often also lead to misunderstandings and tensions, that cause lasting strain. How we communicate with each other determines whether people feel safe and valued at work. Open, Respectful communication enables trust and cooperation. When a constructive feedback culture is lacking, conflicts are often suppressed or escalate. Unclear, unfriendly, or demeaning communication increases stress and affects not only performance, but also mental health. Relationships at work are a crucial factor for our well-being.

Stress arises where bullying, unhealthy hierarchies, conflicting personality styles, and a burdensome communication culture meet. It is therefore all the more important to create work environments characterized by respect, openness, and mutual support. When workplace relationships become a burden, many people feel left alone or helpless. This is exactly where Praxis Kinnunen Psychotherapy and Supervision comes in.

Psychotherapy provides a protected space to perceive and understand one’s own feelings, such as anxiety, being overwhelmed, or anger. Affected individuals to set their boundaries more clearly, to deal with difficult personalities more constructively, and to regain inner strength. Moreover, therapeutic work can help to recognize old patterns that repeatedly trigger stress in the work context. Supervision focuses more on the professional role and team structure. Conflicts, communication problems, or questions about collaboration are professionally reflected upon here. The goal is to clarify one's own position in the work environment, to discover new courses of action, and to improve team dynamics. Both approaches – individually or in combination – contribute to better coping with stress and dealing with the demands of working life in a healthier way in the long term.