What is Workplace Discrimination?
Workplace discrimination refers to unfair treatment towards an individual based on their social identity, such as race, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. In recent years, there has been increased awareness of how this type of discrimination can negatively impact marginalized groups, especially the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning + community (LGBTQ+). This is because LGBTQ+ individuals often face unique challenges that are not always addressed by traditional anti-discrimination laws and policies. Subtle forms of workplace discrimination may include denial of promotions, lower pay rates, or even ostracism from colleagues or managers.
These actions can have long-term mental health effects that affect career progression and self-esteem.
Long-Term Mental Health Effects
Studies show that subtle and overt discrimination in the workplace can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety among LGBTQ+ employees. These feelings can manifest in various ways, including difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches.
These symptoms can exacerbate into more serious conditions, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It's also important to note that discrimination is a major contributor to suicide among LGBTQ+ people.
Career Progression
Discrimination in the workplace can prevent LGBTQ+ individuals from advancing their careers. They may be denied promotions or raises due to their identity, which makes them feel undervalued and unappreciated. This can lead to increased isolation and frustration, further impacting their mental health. In addition, those who experience discrimination are less likely to feel safe sharing their ideas or opinions with others, which can limit their ability to contribute meaningfully to projects or collaborations.
Self-Esteem
Subtle and overt forms of discrimination can chip away at an individual's sense of self-worth. When someone is constantly told they don't belong or are not valuable, it can damage their confidence and sense of purpose. This can lead to lower job satisfaction and even thoughts of quitting altogether. As a result, employers lose out on talented workers who could have otherwise made significant contributions to their organization.
The long-term effects of workplace discrimination on LGBTQ+ employees can be severe. Subtle forms of discrimination, such as microaggressions and stereotypes, can create a hostile environment where individuals feel unsafe and unwelcome.
This can lead to serious mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Employers should take steps to ensure their policies and practices promote diversity and inclusion to retain top talent while creating a positive workplace culture for all employees.
What are the long-term mental health effects of subtle and overt workplace discrimination on LGBTQ+ employees' career progression and self-esteem?
The long-term mental health effects of subtle and overt workplace discrimination on LGBTQ+ employees' career progression and self-esteem can be devastating. Discrimination is an unfortunate reality for many people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus (LGBTQ+) and it can have a profound impact on their overall wellbeing.