If any of those scenarios feel familiar, you may be working in a fear-based environment, and you are far from alone. Workplace investigator and solicitor, Clara O’Sullivan of Clara O’Sullivan Workplace Investigations, says poor behaviours can become a vicious circle unless there is intervention. An analysis of Irish workplace mental health trends by business lobby group, Ibec, this year found that psychological safety is firmly linked to trust, innovation and engagement in Irish organisations. This helps protect workers who report wrongdoing in their workplace from being dismissed, penalised or from other retaliatory sanctions by their employers. If you are experiencing a toxic workplace, seek help and support from friends, family and professionals outside your organisation, especially if you plan to lodge a formal complaint.

Source: The Irish Times March 13, 2026 00:59 UTC