I am being undermined by a colleague—what should I do?

Sara Sreih, medicolegal consultant at the Medical Protection Society, says, "According to the 2024 NHS staff survey, more than 15% of staff experienced at least one incident of harassment, bullying, or abuse from colleagues in the previous 12 months.Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for us at MPS to see cases that have deep rooted disputes between colleagues at the centre."Such behaviours not only affect those on the receiving end but can have a profound impact on patient care.If inappropriate communication or interactions are allowed to play out in the context of handovers or referrals, for example, patients can be put at risk."If you're being undermined by a colleague, pause and take a deep metaphorical breath.Bearing in mind your professional obligations to work collaboratively and to treat colleagues with kindness and respect, you should be wary about being drawn in to responding in an unprofessional manner."If another clinician questions a clinical decision you've made, consider that they have a duty to raise a concern where they perceive risk to patient safety.This may, however, be a matter that requires more serious attention if the behaviour is persistent, intentional, or carried out without courtesy and respect.Try objectively to identify and document these instances."If these situations arise because of poor communication or a personality clash, a direct conversation may be the first step.If you feel the behaviour might amount to bullying or harassment, then support should be sought.Seek advice from your line manager or a trusted mentor and consider involving your union or medical defence organisation.The impact on confidence and wellbeing can be considerable and long lasting, so seek support early.