Can behaviour (Verbal & Gestural) trigger Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ?

As an HR professional and a psychology enthusiast, I have always been observant towards behaviour and it’s pattern at workplace. This necessarily doesn’t have to be a part of the overall organizational culture but a very distinct grapevine creating unrest amongst few if not all

In the intricate tapestry of organizational dynamics, the workplace serves as a crucible where diverse personalities, ambitions, and expectations converge. As a seasoned Human Resources professional with a passion for psychology, I have consistently observed the intricate patterns of behaviour within the workplace. While organizational culture is multifaceted, there are instances where a distinct grapevine emerges, sowing seeds of unrest among employees.

Can behaviour (Verbal & Gestural) of a colleague effect your mental wellbeing or performance at workplace?

Yes, the behaviour, both verbal and gestural, of a colleague can significantly impact your mental well-being and performance at the workplace. Positive interactions and a supportive work environment can contribute to a positive mental state and enhance your overall job satisfaction and productivity.

Conversely, negative behaviour, such as verbal aggression, bullying, or hostile gestures, can have detrimental effects. It may lead to stress, anxiety, and a decrease in motivation. Persistent exposure to such behaviour may even contribute to a hostile work environment, impacting both mental well-being and work performance.

 

Do personal trauma / past experiences get triggered and creates psychological unrest by unsolicited / vested behaviour of colleagues?

Yes, it is possible for personal trauma or past experiences to be triggered by the unsolicited or vested behaviour of colleagues, leading to psychological unrest. Individuals carry their past experiences, emotions, and traumas into various aspects of their lives, including the workplace. When colleagues exhibit behaviours that are reminiscent of or somehow connected to past negative experiences, it can activate emotional responses and contribute to psychological distress.

 

These triggers might be related to past instances of betrayal, mistreatment, or any form of emotional distress. The current behaviour of colleagues may unintentionally remind an individual of those past experiences, leading to heightened stress, anxiety, or other emotional reactions. This can impact one's ability to function effectively in the workplace, affecting both mental well-being and overall job performance.

Now, the questions are:

  • We all speak about mental wellbeing and emphasize on awareness programs at office, do we actually follow or value that?
  • Do we understand the impact on individuals going through this?
  • Many around us suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), can we do anything for them proactively?

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