More Than Emotions: The Physical Health Impacts of Workplace Discrimination

Apr 25, 2023
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Discrimination in the workplace is not only a violation of your rights, but it can also have a significant impact on your physical health. At Community Law Office, PLLC, we understand the importance of addressing these issues and advocating for our clients' well-being. It’s obvious that facing discrimination takes an emotional and mental toll on a person, but did you know some people experience physical health effects too? I’ve laid out some of the common ways employment discrimination can negatively impact your well-being. It's essential to seek legal representation if you're experiencing discrimination that impacts your health. If you or someone you know is facing discrimination, call us at (319) 200-7050 or fill out our contact form.


1.Stress and Anxiety

When facing discrimination at work, it's common for individuals to experience increased stress and anxiety. This heightened state can lead to various symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Over time, chronic stress may contribute to more severe health issues, including heart disease and hypertension.


2. Depression

Workplace discrimination can also result in feelings of depression, as individuals may feel helpless, hopeless, or overwhelmed by the unfair treatment they are experiencing. Depression manifests in physical symptoms, such as changes in appetite, fatigue, and even unexplained aches and pains.


3. Weakened Immune System

The toll of workplace discrimination can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses and infections. A compromised immune system may lead to frequent colds, flu, or other health issues that can further impact your ability to perform well at work.


4. Gastrointestinal Issues

The stress and anxiety associated with workplace discrimination can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, and acid reflux. These conditions can result in abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea, affecting your daily life and overall well-being.


5. Increased Risk of Diabetes

Research suggests that individuals facing workplace discrimination may have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as stress and depression can lead to poor lifestyle choices, including unhealthy eating habits and a lack of physical activity.


6. Sleep Disturbances

The stress and anxiety caused by workplace discrimination can lead to sleep disturbances, including insomnia and poor sleep quality. Prolonged sleep disturbances can negatively impact overall health, increasing the risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.


Workplace discrimination not only infringes upon your rights but also has the potential to negatively impact your physical health. If you're experiencing discrimination in the workplace, it's crucial to seek legal representation to protect your well-being and hold those responsible accountable. At Community Law Office, PLLC, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal assistance to individuals facing employment discrimination. If you or someone you know is in need of our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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