Can you get PTSD from work? What are PTSD symptoms?

If harassment and bullying happen over a long period of time, it can cause PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Work PTSD Symptoms

PTSD is not just something that happens to veterans; it happens to anyone who experiences trauma. The symptoms of PTSD include:

Insomnia
Nightmares
Angry outbursts
Trouble sleeping
Feelings of dread
Erratic mood swings
Lack of pleasure in daily activities
Negative changes in beliefs or feelings

Hostile work environment can take many forms:

Verbal abuse – mean jokes, insults, ridicule, and offensive comments.
Physical abuse – pushing, shoving, or assault.
Situational abuse – humiliating or using a situation to cause grounds for termination.
Sexual harassment – unwanted sexual advances, requests for favours, or coercion.

All of these types of bullying can cause PTSD, but sexual harassment will often cause victims PTSD.

What Causes Hostile Work Environment?

Victims will suffer emotional stress and PTSD if they have to return to a toxic work environment and face their abusers every day.

These are the main factors in workplace bullying:

Dysfunctional structure – poor communication, lack of accountability, and no strong decision-making process.
Bad leaders – narcissistic and manipulative leaders create a “me against everyone” workplace that fosters bullying.
Dysfunctional colleagues – bullying can come from colleagues, not just bosses. These colleagues will create drama and blame others for their mistakes.

How Can I Protect Myself If I Am Being Bullied At Work?

It is easy to feel trapped in a toxic workplace. Some bullying victims worry they will be fired or experience other negative consequences if they report the behavior. Especially if the behavior happens in front of other people and nobody steps in. If you rely on your job for income, it can feel like you are trapped with no way out.

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Can you get PTSD from work?