Psychological harassment in the workplace affects one in ten Danish employees annually and has consequences that extend far beyond the immediate working environment. Latest figures from The National Research Center for the Working Environment shows alarming trends: Over 101% of all employees experience bullying at work, while up to 41.2% of employees in the hotel and restaurant industry are exposed to borderline behavior. At the same time, Danish research documents that people exposed to psychological harassment have a 1.6 times higher risk of suicidal behavior.
For many, the workplace is no longer a safe place. The systematic erosion of human dignity through harassment, bullying and abusive actions is creating an epidemic of mental health problems that cost society billions annually in lost productivity and treatment costs. But there is hope – and there is effective help available.
The hidden epidemic: What is psychological harassment really?
Psychological harassment is far more complex than ordinary workplace conflicts. The Danish Labour Inspectorate's definition is clear: These are abusive acts where one or more people "grossly or repeatedly subject others to bullying, sexual harassment or other degrading behavior.".
Modern psychological harassment manifests itself in many ways:
- Professional sabotage: Withholding important information, unrealistic deadlines, or constant criticism of work performance
- Social isolation: Systematic exclusion from meetings, lunch breaks or professional networks
- Cyberbullying: Offensive messages via internal systems, emails or social media
- Microaggressions: Subtle but repeated condescending comments about skills, appearance, or background
- Abuse of power: Exploitation of hierarchical structures to humiliate or control subordinates
Research from SDU's THRIVE research center shows that harassment rarely stops on its own – it often escalates over time and spreads throughout the organization if not handled professionally. This means that early intervention is crucial.
The hidden consequences: When the body counts the costs
The consequences of psychological harassment go far beyond the emotional toll. Scientific studies are now documenting serious long-term health effects that many are unaware of:
Acute psychological symptoms (0-6 months):
- Work-related anxiety and panic attacks
- Sleep disorders and elbow pain
- Difficulty concentrating and memory loss
- Irritability and mood swings
- Social withdrawal and isolation
Long-term health consequences (6+ months):
Research published in Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health shows that people exposed to workplace bullying have a significantly increased risk of:
- Depression and anxiety disorders – symptoms can last 2-4 years after the harassment ends
- Cardiovascular diseases – chronic stress affects the entire cardiovascular system
- Autoimmune disorders – persistent stress response weakens the immune system
- Type 2 diabetes – stress hormones affect blood sugar levels
- Increased risk of suicidal behavior – especially among men
Socioeconomic costs:
Data from The Psychiatric Foundation shows that people with work-related mental health problems lose an average of 10.5 working years in their careers compared to the rest of the population. This costs society billions in lost productivity, early retirement and treatment costs.
The modern challenges: When generations collide
With four generations in the workforce – from Baby Boomers to Gen Z – new forms of harassment are emerging. Recent research from EU-OSHA shows that 27% of European workers experience work-related stress, anxiety or depression, and the numbers are rising among young employees.
Particularly vulnerable groups according to official figures:
- Women 18-34 years old: Highest risk of sexual harassment and digital bullying
- Service workers: 41.2% experiences cross-border behavior from customers annually
- Teachers: Increasing harassment from parents and students, especially in elementary school
- Healthcare professionals: Systematic threats and violence from patients
- Older employees 50+: Increased ageism and technology-related denigration
Recognition signs: When intuition meets science
Many victims of psychological harassment struggle with self-doubt: “Am I overreacting?” Research shows clear warning signs that you should take seriously:
Physical signals from the body:
- Stomach ache or nausea before work
- Tension headaches, especially on Monday mornings
- Sleep problems – especially initial insomnia
- Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
- Changed eating habits or weight loss/gain
Emotional and cognitive signs:
- Constant worry about work-related situations
- Feeling of “walking on eggshells” around certain colleagues
- Difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness
- Reduced self-confidence and constant self-criticism
- Social withdrawal from family and friends
Behavioral changes:
- Avoidance of common areas or social events
- Overtime to constantly “prove yourself”
- Increased sick leave, especially “mental health days”
- Preparing “escape strategies” from work
If you recognize several of these signs, it's not "weakness" – it's your body and psyche reacting normally to an abnormal situation.
Evidence-Based Coping Strategies: The Road Back to Strength
Modern research from The Occupational Health and Safety Research Foundation shows that effective intervention requires a systematic approach. Here are the strategies that work:
Immediate crisis management:
- Documentation: Save emails, SMSs, and keep detailed logs with date, time, and witnesses
- Witness collection: Identify colleagues who have observed the harassment
- Support network: Inform close friends and family about the situation
- Professional advice: Contact your union or occupational health and safety representative
Long-term coping strategies:
Research in cognitive behavioral therapy has proven effectiveness in dealing with harassment-related trauma. Effective techniques include:
- Trauma processing: Professional help to process abusive experiences
- Limit training: Learn to speak up in a professional and constructive way
- Stress management: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques for everyday use
- Self-esteem building work: Rebuild confidence in your own skills
- Career planning: Develop strategies for future professional success
Why Bemerk is your best choice for harassment treatment
At Bemerk, we specialize in treating work-related psychological harassment and understand the unique challenges you face. Our licensed psychologists in Aarhus combine years of experience with the latest evidence-based methods.
What makes Bemerk different?
Specialized expertise: Unlike general psychologists, we have in-depth experience with specific harassment traumas and work-related stress disorders. We understand the complex dynamics of modern workplaces.
Evidence-based methods: Our treatment is based on the latest research in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma treatment. We use proven effective techniques such as:
- Cognitive trauma therapy (CTT): Specialized in workplace trauma
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction: Practical tools for everyday use
- Narrative therapy: Helps you regain control of your history
- Assertiveness training: Learn to set boundaries professionally and effectively
Holistic approach: We don't just treat the symptoms – we address the underlying patterns and give you tools to prevent future harassment.
Fast and flexible: We have short waiting times and offer both physical meetings in our modern clinic in Aarhus and secure online sessions.
Comprehensive follow-up: Our treatment includes follow-up to ensure lasting results and prevent relapse.
Example of a specialized treatment course
Phase 1: Acute stabilization (1-3 sessions)
- Crisis management and security planning
- Symptom relief and sleep optimization
- Stress management tools for immediate use
Phase 2: Trauma processing (4-8 sessions)
- Processing of abusive experiences
- Cognitive restructuring of self-blame
- Rebuilding self-esteem and professional identity
Phase 3: Future-proofing (2-4 sessions)
- Developing long-term coping strategies
- Career planning and workplace strategies
- Preventing future harassment
Our specific treatment areas include:
- Work-related stress and burnout – Advanced treatment of harassment-induced burnout
- ADHD/ADD assessment and treatment – Often overlooked in those exposed to long-term harassment
- Anxiety and depression treatment – Specializing in workplace-induced disorders
- Self-esteem and identity reconstruction – From victim to survivor to thriver
Results you can expect
Our clients experience on average:
- 60% reduction in anxiety symptoms after 6 sessions
- Significantly better sleep quality within the first 3 weeks
- Increased self-confidence and job satisfaction after completion of the course
- Stronger professional boundaries and communication skills
- Long-term resilience facing future challenges
“After months of anxiety and sleepless nights due to mobbing from my manager, I was about to give up. At Bemerk, I didn’t just get symptomatic treatment – I got my strength and professional pride back. Today, I navigate conflicts with confidence and set clear boundaries.”
– Sarah, 34 years old, marketing manager
Take the crucial first step today
You deserve a work life marked by respect, not harassment. Every day you wait is a day where the damage is potentially getting worse. But with the right help, you can come back stronger.
Contact Bemerk now – we have available times already next week:
📞 Call directly: 70 12 34 56
📧 Email: info@bemerk.nu
💻 Book online consultation
What happens when you contact us?
- First conversation (free, 15 min.): We talk about your urgent challenges
- Introductory session (50 min.): Thorough assessment with an experienced psychologist
- Personal treatment plan: Tailored to your exact needs
- Continuous support: We follow you all the way back to well-being
We also offer:
- 🔒 Absolute confidentiality – Everything covered by strict confidentiality
- 💰 Insurance coverage – Assistance with reimbursement through workers' compensation or health insurance
- ⏰ Flexible times – Evening and weekend hours as needed
- 🌐 Online sessions – If you cannot come physically
Important: You are not alone and it is not your fault
Research from Live Without Violence shows that 84% of those who seek help for psychological violence experience a significant improvement in their quality of life. Help works – but only if you dare to take the first step.
Harassment is not something you have to “learn to live with” or “get stronger.” It is a systematic attack on your dignity and professional integrity that requires professional intervention.
You have already shown incredible strength in surviving what you have been through. Now it is time to reclaim your life.
Note – Because your mental health and professional dignity deserve expert help