Can You Get PTSD From A Toxic Job?

Workplace experiences can have a profound impact on an employee's mental health, especially when the environment is toxic.  In some cases, this can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This article will explore the complexities of trauma that can arise from a toxic work environment and provide insight into the causes, signs, symptoms, impacts, and strategies for cultivating a supportive work culture.  

Causes of Workplace Trauma

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Workplace trauma can stem from various experiences including bullying, harassment, discrimination, or even the experience of a life-threatening incident on the job. PTSD, a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, is often associated with military service or natural disasters, but it can also result from workplace-related trauma.
Workplace trauma can lead to a range of psychological and physiological symptoms that can significantly disrupt an individual's personal and professional life. Understanding the causes and symptoms of trauma and PTSD is critical for addressing the issue, including providing appropriate support and treatment.

Signs of workplace trauma

Workplace trauma can take many forms, from verbal abuse and emotional manipulation that includes physical threats of violence and witnessing traumatic events. These experiences can lead to a heightened sense of fear and anxiety and a profound sense of vulnerability, all of which can contribute to the development of PTSD.
Workplace bullying, in particular, can be a contributor to workplace trauma. Bullying behaviors, such as threats or acts of violence, can create an environment of constant stress and fear, leading to the onset of PTSD symptoms.
Additionally, those affected by trauma in the workplace may feel powerless to address the situation or fear retaliation.  This can exacerbate the impact of the trauma making it more difficult to process and recover from.

Symptoms of PTSD from Workplace Trauma

Individuals typically experience symptoms of PTSD in these four areas:

1. Intrusions: repeated distressing thoughts, memories, or re-experiencing of the trauma as well as significant psychological or physical distress from trauma reminders.
2. Avoidance: keep away from situations, people, or even the workplace itself, as well as refraining from even speaking about the traumatic event.
3. Hyperarousal: state of heightened alertness, feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, irritability and experiencing difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
4. Altered Mood: persistent negative emotions, such as fear, guilt, or shame, feelings of detachment from others, as well as a distorted sense of self and the world.

Impacts of PTSD on Work Performance

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The impact of PTSD on work performance can be far-reaching. Individuals struggling with PTSD may experience:
- Decreased productivity and work quality due to difficulty concentrating and completing tasks
- Increased absenteeism and tardiness
- Strained relationships with colleagues and supervisors
- Difficulty making decisions and problem-solving
- Heightened sensitivity to common workplace stressors

These challenges can have a profound affect on an individual's career trajectory and overall job satisfaction, further influencing the emotional and psychological toll of PTSD.

Strategies for addressing workplace trauma
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Recognizing the signs and acknowledging that trauma can occur in the workplace is a paramount strategy for achieving employee wellness and optimal job performance.  Additionally, knowing the symptoms of trauma and PTSD is key for individuals seeking appropriate treatment and support, leading to a healing work environment and job satisfaction.
If you're facing challenges with PTSD, rest assured that help is available. At Nema, our therapists are trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and other supportive treatments tailored for PTSD, aiming for lasting recovery. If you're interested in learning more, click here to schedule a complimentary consultation.

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