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New Data Reveals the Staggering Impact of Microaggressions and Harassment in Canadian Workplaces
The latest Telus Mental Health Index unveils a sobering reality: over a quarter of Canadian workers have faced microaggressions in the workplace, and more than one in seven report having encountered harassment. These challenges go beyond HR issues; they signify mental health crises that profoundly impact productivity, employee retention, and your company’s reputation.
By the Numbers: What the Data Tells Us
- Twenty-seven percent of workers have encountered microaggressions. Moreover, their mental scores are over thirteen points lower than those of peers who haven’t experienced microaggressions and six points below the national average.
- Fourteen percent of workers have faced harassment. Additionally, their mental health scores are fifteen percent lower than those of unaffected colleagues and twelve points below the national average.
- Most at-risk groups: Younger workers (under 40), managers, and parents.
Why This Should Keep Leaders Up at Night
When mental health declines, performance does too. Teams facing microaggressions or harassment are:
- Less engaged and collaborative
- More likely to quit (increasing recruitment and training costs)
- Prone to absenteeism or “quiet quitting”
Ignoring these issues isn’t just unethical—it poses a financial risk.
The Solution? Proactive Prevention—Not Damage Control
As a conflict resolution and workplace investigations specialist, I collaborate with organizations to:
- Investigate complaints swiftly and fairly: Restore trust through transparent processes.
- Train teams to foster a respectful workplace: Develop inclusive communication skills.
- Create safer reporting systems: Empower employees to voice their concerns without fear of retaliation.
Are You Ready to be Proactive?
Please feel free to contact me to discuss actionable strategies—no obligation, just clarity.