I have come to the realization that I have workplace trauma and facing the start of a new job, I feel like I have PTSD-like issues.

Anonymous

April 14,2022 at 2:53AM UTC

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I have come to the realization that I have workplace trauma and facing the start of a new job, I feel like I have PTSD-like issues. I am a minority female and have dealt with some wildly inappropriate to very disturbing situations in the workplace over the years. I used to be able to chalk it up to one ignorant individual or one biased person, but now I see racism and bias on a regular basis. I’m having a hard time putting myself in new situations because I just cannot face the potential of similar situations occurring again. Has anyone faced similar issues and how did you overcome them?

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AnonymousApril 14,2022 at 3:17AM UTC
It seems like the place you are at has some very toxic individuals. While I have been lucky not to encounter such situations, I think it would be ideal to take some action if it bothers you so much. You have a right to feel safe and protected at work. Do you have anyone in management that you trust and can confide in or can you raise your concerns to HR? I think those could be your first steps. The last option would be to leave that environment if you have another opportunity elsewhere. Hope this helps. I wish you best of luck!
AnonymousApril 14,2022 at 4:33AM UTC
Thank you. I am interviewing and I’m getting anxious as I get closer to starting a new job. I’m actually afraid I’ll get an offer.
AnonymousApril 14,2022 at 5:47AM UTC
Medication helps. I have PTSD from sexual harassment and mobbing by white men (I'm a minority so the dynamics were very miserable). On top of that I worked for social services which made me realize that women of color weren't safe anywhere. Seeking therapy and groups can mitigate a lot of the isolation that comes with PTSD. Its been 6 months since I was fired for reporting racialized misogyny and I'm still shaking and crying. I'm sorry for what your last job put you through. xx
AnonymousApril 14,2022 at 11:26PM UTC
I'm sorry you're dealing with this - it's all too common & not okay. I can't speak for the racism piece, but rather as a female, who has experienced some gender bias issues. Finding someone or a group to talk about this with could be helpful. Maybe talk with your manager or some trusted leader about how this is important to you since you've had some past trauma.
Heather CutlerApril 18,2022 at 12:26PM UTC
I applaud your level of self awareness. You’ve identified a trigger, these past experiences…and how this translates into the professional challenges you’re facing today.
You really have an opportunity in front of you to visit with a career coach and / or a counselor to help process and address this trauma.
There are no awards for suffering so your swift action will be paramount so you don’t self sabotage this opportunity that’s in front of you. Best of luck in your next steps!