Risk factors for workplace bullying, severe psychological distress, and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide internet survey for the general working population in Japan
Authors: Tsuno Kanami , Tabuchi Takahiro 
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The pandemic of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has created a challenging environment for workers. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for workplace bullying and mental health outcomes during the pandemic among workers.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide online cross-sectional survey from August to September 2020 in Japan (N = 16,384). Workplace bullying was measured by one item from the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire; severe psychological distress (SPD) by K6 (≥13); and suicidal ideation by one item. Prevalence ratios were calculated by Poisson regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders such as gender, age, occupational characteristics, and a prior history of depression.

Results

Overall, 15% of workers experienced workplace bullying, 9% had SPD, and 12% had suicidal ideation during the second and third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The results of this study showed men, executives, managers, and permanent employees had a higher risk of bullying compared to women or part-time workers.

Increased physical and psychological demands were common risk factors for bullying, SPD, and suicidal ideation. Newly starting working from home was a significant predictor for adverse mental health outcomes, however, it was found to be a preventive factor against workplace bullying.

Conclusions

The results of this study found different high-risk groups for bullying or mental health during the pandemic. When intervening to decrease workplace bullying or mental health problems, we should focus on not only previously reported vulnerable workers but also workers who experienced a change of their working styles or job demands.

Key messages

What is already known about this subject?

Workplace bullying is one of the severe job stressors in the workplace that cause mental health problems.

Health care workers, less-educated workers, and non-regular female workers have been reported to have greater psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are the new findings?

About 15% of workers experienced workplace bullying, 9% had SPD, and 12% had suicidal ideation during the pandemic in Japan.

Men, executives, managers, and permanent workers had a higher risk of bullying compared to women or part-time workers.

Increased physical or psychological demands were common risk factors for bullying, SPD, and suicidal ideation.

While newly starting working from home was a preventive factor against workplace bullying, it was found to be a significant risk factor for adverse mental health outcomes.

How might this impact on policy or clinical practice in the foreseeable future?

The results of this study indicate a different pattern of high-risk groups for bullying or mental health during the pandemic.

When intervening to decrease workplace bullying or mental health problems, we should focus on not only previously reported vulnerable workers but also workers who experienced a change of their working styles or job demands.