When Your Manager's Personal Problems Become Everyone's Problem

Dealing with a negative manager who's bringing their personal struggles into the workplace can feel overwhelming, especially when you're watching it affect your entire team. You're not alone in feeling hurt, frustrated, or unsure about how to handle this delicate situation.

This question was answered by Andy Wright – Founder of Never Not Creative and CEO of Streamtime – alongside Dr Erica Crome – Clinical Psychologist and Health Manager – and Nicky Bryson – Principal and Co-founder of Sayers Brand Momentum. Their combined expertise in workplace wellbeing, psychology, and leadership provides valuable insights for navigating these challenging dynamics.

The Impact on Team Morale

When a manager brings negativity to work, it creates ripple effects throughout the entire team. As Erica explains, "it's not fair to bring this stuff to work, it's not professional." The behaviour described – criticising colleagues within earshot and making harsh comments about past work – damages the psychological safety that teams need to thrive.

Andy acknowledges how "damaging some of those behaviours are for that sense of psychological safety within the team environment." When someone in a position of power exhibits these behaviours, it affects everyone's ability to feel secure and valued at work.

Approaching the Conversation

The key to addressing this situation depends largely on your existing relationship with your manager. Erica suggests that "if you have quite a close relationship with the manager it's something I'd probably call out really quietly in a safe place because they might not realise that they are bringing as much stress to work as you're seeing."

The approach should be gentle and caring: "hey, I've noticed you've been a bit stressed and snappy lately, is everything okay? Is there anything we can help with?" This frames the conversation around concern rather than criticism.

Nicky adds that "sometimes people need to be heard," suggesting you "apply some empathy and ask them if they're okay and then use that as a subversive tactic to then say how that's making you feel."

When You're Not Close to Your Manager

If you don't have a close relationship with your manager, Erica recommends "raising with appropriate people in your workplace. One, because of the impact it's having on the team and the morale, but two, because it sounds like this person actually is going through a pretty stressful time and they might actually need some support as well."

This approach recognises that escalating the issue isn't just about protecting the team – it's also about ensuring the manager gets the support they might need.

The Power of Human Connection

Andy emphasises that "it's really hard to sort of be human to someone when they're exhibiting such inhuman tendencies, but sometimes it really does break it down quite quickly." He notes that asking "is everything okay?" shifts the focus to the person rather than their behaviour, which can be surprisingly effective.

This approach has even worked with difficult clients, as Andy explains: "sometimes clients are behaving erratically. You can actually go, look, are you okay? Is there something going on here? Because you really do want to kind of understand that, you know, actually this might not be them."

Finding Support Through NNC Circles

Never Not Creative's Circles programme offers peer support groups specifically designed for creatives facing workplace challenges. These confidential, non-competitive spaces connect you with other creatives who understand the unique pressures of our industry. Meeting monthly with trained facilitators, Circles provide mental health education, group discussions, and practical strategies for navigating difficult situations like dealing with negative managers.

The programme's focus on creating "safe, non-judgmental, non-competitive and confidential spaces" makes it an ideal environment to process your experiences and learn from others who may have faced similar challenges. Learn more about NNC Circles.

When Professional Help is Needed

If the situation becomes too overwhelming or starts significantly affecting your mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional support. Sometimes workplace stress can compound other life pressures, and speaking with a qualified mental health professional can provide you with personalised strategies and support.

Remember, prioritising your wellbeing isn't selfish – it's essential. If you need immediate support, visit our Where to Get Help section for crisis support resources and mental health services.

Know Your Rights with the Support Line

If your manager's behaviour crosses into bullying, harassment, or creates a hostile work environment, you have rights. Never Not Creative's Support Line, in partnership with Artis Causa, provides free introductory legal advice for workplace issues including bullying and harassment.

This service offers initial case reviews and consultations with employment lawyers who specialise in the creative industries. Understanding your rights can empower you to make informed decisions about how to proceed. Access the Support Line if you need legal guidance about your situation.

Remember, you deserve to work in an environment where you feel respected and valued. While it's natural to want to help someone who's struggling, you shouldn't have to sacrifice your own wellbeing or that of your team. Sometimes the most compassionate thing you can do is ensure everyone gets the support they need – including yourself.