“I worked as a general manager at a home healthcare company. The bullying began subtly, with nitpicking about how I spoke, laughed, or reacted, and escalated into constant questions like “Why do you hate your job?” despite me expressing otherwise. After knee replacement surgery, I returned to work just three weeks later and was pressured to take on HR duties while still in recovery. My resistance to one task while on pain medication was labeled as “defiance,” and I was questioned about my return date.
Despite physical limitations, I returned full-time, struggling with swelling and pain. I was often a few minutes late and began feeling surveilled. Comments like “Brenda will make a great general manager when you’re gone” made it clear that plans were being made behind my back.
In meetings, my mistakes were called out in front of the team. When I reacted defensively once, it further fueled the narrative that I was defiant. I continued showing up, but my depression deepened. I was accused of misusing work time and working on personal projects, which was untrue.
On vacation, I received calls from my supervisor accusing me of being mentally unwell. After requesting approval twice for a long lunch with a friend (to be made up later), I was told I would be moved to hourly status. Despite apologizing and working late to make up the time, my efforts were disregarded.
On vacation, I received calls from my supervisor accusing me of being mentally unwell.
I began showing up early, working through lunch, and staying late, all while under intense scrutiny. My supervisor questioned my loyalty, berated me over texts, and eventually banned me from the office — sending an all-staff message announcing it. The humiliation was overwhelming. I became afraid to move from my kitchen table, fearing accusations of slacking.
Despite trying my hardest, including managing team reviews and being productive, I was demoted from general manager to project manager. It was framed as a promotion but clearly wasn’t. My supervisor’s hostility continued, culminating in her screaming and throwing papers at me.
I took a leave of absence due to severe anxiety and depression, but I was terminated before I could return. My mental health decline was work-induced — I wasn’t irresponsible, unreliable, or unprofessional. I was loyal despite repeated mistreatment.
The impact on me was devastating: daily crying, therapy, antidepressants, and severe anxiety triggered by any communication from my boss. The organization remains toxic. Friends and coworkers were too afraid to support me, fearing they’d be next. This culture of fear and mistrust continues to harm others.”