How sexual harassment affects health and well being
Sexual harassment affects the health and well being of workers, according to new research.
The the University of Calgary study found workers can suffer a range of health and psychological issues. For example:
- anxiety,
- depression
- and even post-traumatic stress disorder.
Women more severely impacted
According to the research, women are twice as likely than men to show persistent psychological distress two years after experiencing sexual harassment at work.
Additionally, they have worse physical health symptoms and satisfaction with their health.
In one study, women working in male-dominated industries had poorer health as measured by a stress hormone taken after work.
Sexual harassment can cause physiological response
Sexual harassment and assault that happen at work can act as a stressor producing an involuntary physiological response.
This sort of stress can adversely affect blood pressure, pulse rate and the stress hormone cortisol.
It can also cause heart rate variability.
However, removing the threat often does not stop the biological response to stress, according to experts.
This can lead to mental disorders, for example:
- post traumatic stress disorder,
- depression,
- anxiety
- and other chronic diseases.
Those who suffer these conditions often turn to unhealthy behaviours to cope, including alcohol in order to cope with the stress.
As a result, these behaviours increase the risk of chronic disease.
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Who’s responsible for the health and well-being of workers?
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace for their employees.
Despite this, many businesses fail to respond appropriately to complaints about sexual harassment.
Complainants are often unsatisfied with their employer’s response, according to survey last year.
Important to speak up
Meanwhile, industrial advocate Miles Heffernan said he has seen the mental health effects sexual harassment has on victims.
“One of our current clients has been subjected to the most vile sexual harassment,” he said. “For example, the perpetrator sent her inappropriate images and text messages.
“Not only has she suffered the trauma of the harassment, but she has also been re-victimised by having to re-live the behaviour and have her version of events questioned.
“I am pleased to say that in her case, we were able to offer her the support and advice she needed and we also settled the matter on her behalf and managed to negotiate a huge six figure compensation payment.”
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