According to a newly released Quarter 1 2025 Civility Index from SHRM, a human resources organization, instances of incivility at work in the U.S. have risen more than 20 percent since the same time last year. This is not a new development. The American Psychological Association’s 2023 Work in America survey revealed that 22 percent of American workers have experienced or were afraid of experiencing harm to their mental health within their workplace. 

“There is no reason any of us should have to ‘thrive in a fast-paced environment’ or ‘work well under pressure.’ Most of our daily work is not a true emergency, Danielle Roberts, a future of work coach, posted on LinkedIn. 

“And our culture of fake urgency, immediacy and instant gratification just to create more value for shareholders is burning people out. Please stop sending people’s nervous systems into fight or flight because of your resource management issues.”

What defines workplace incivility?

• Demeaning language: Insulting, berating and name-calling. 
• Hurtful comments: Condescending comments such as, "You don’t have a clue, do you?" or giving public reprimands – “Get with the program!” 
• Fake accusations: Making inaccurate judgments about a coworker's competence or character. 
• Passive-aggressive messaging: Negative, belittling texts, emails, notes and social media posts. Avoidance of face-to-face dialog.
• A churning rumor mill: Negative gossiping and unfounded speculation and assertions. 

What to do if you find yourself in a toxic work environment?

Claire Law, a relational psychotherapist and freelance writer in the United Kingdom, has been quoted as saying, “At a certain point, the healthiest choice may just be to cut your losses and get out. Start looking for roles at companies that walk the walk when it comes to creating psychologically safe workplace cultures. They do exist!”

“If leaving isn’t an option just yet, give yourself empathy. You’re not failing by struggling in an abusive environment. Connect with people who can provide support or just listen as you work toward your exit plan,” she says.