This is what we asked you, Dear Readers share your stories about how you deal with violence and stress in the workplace.

Dr. Shankar (name changed for identity reasons), a senior scientist working at a government research institute funded by the University Grants Commission (Ministry of Education), shares his experiences.

Please note that this image is used for representational purposes only. Photo: Henrique Ribeiro/Pexels.com

In a few years, I will have completed two decades in my current organization. I believe that I do my work conscientiously and honestly.

Before coming here, I completed my PhD in Physics from Saurashtra University, Rajkot and post-doctoral research at TIFR, Mumbai and IAAC, WW University, Muenster, Germany on a scholarship.

I received the promotion on time and I am one step away from reaching the saturation point in my field.

I regret that since I joined, I have been denied appropriate opportunities to conduct research work that has been suppressed within my organization.

The atmosphere at work is very regressive.

Since I did my PhD at a lesser known university, I feel like I was sidelined (denied) when it came to getting mainstream facilities.

Even though I work and post regularly, it is mostly for my own self-motivation as I struggle for amenities and the desire to be noticed.

In our work, the scientist’s pedigree (the university where the doctorate was obtained) is of great importance.

My office and senior people neglect my contributions to the organizational structure and refuse to recognize me.

Over the years, my working conditions have led me to develop stress-related health problems, including, but not limited to, diabetes, thyroid, and borderline high blood pressure.

I was so depressed that I couldn’t even share my misfortunes with my family as I am the only earning member (I have a wife and daughter) and they depend on me for financial support.

I try to stay upbeat and help my friends, but no one comes to me to cheer me up when I’m down. I don’t know how to deal with this anymore.

Dear Readers, have you encountered harassment in the workplace? Do you know anyone who has?

How did you deal with it?

Did you report the incident(s) or did you opt out?

How did you recover from abuse? Have you sought professional help?

What lessons have you learned that can help others?

In Anna’s light Sebastian Perayiltragic death, we hope that the real-life experiences we have shared will help others who are facing a similar situation.

Write to us at [email protected] (Subject: Workplace Issues). If you can, please include your name and location. If you wish to remain anonymous, please let us know; we will respect your wishes.