Work trauma--does anyone ever get over it?

[raccoon]

Some years ago, I had some real crappy work experiences. I've been in my current job more than a decade. Even after all these years, when I think/know I've done something incorrectly, or done something wrong at work, I don't just get apprehensive. I get panicky.

Fortunately, these days I'm usually able to calm myself before too much time has gone by. But still my first reaction is panic, paralyzing fear.

Anyone else?

[TZ]

1. Takes some time

I had a horrendous experience while working at NIH a few years ago...I'm mostly past it BUT certain things similar to the nonsense I witnessed will really set me off ...But I think it's actually good.... I refuse to tolerate ANY bullshit anymore.

[LeftinOH]

2. I quit my job at X back in 1994; I have recurring dreams (nightmares, actually) that X

can force me -through some obscure legal loophole- to return to work. My old mailbox is backed up with 15 years' worth of paperwork, and I have to do it, or else. I've gotten used to it by now, but there has always been a kind of magnetic 'pull' that makes me feel like it is somehow my destiny to end my days working at X (in a job I hated, among people I didn't like). I've been in my current position for 12 years-but I never get in a panic over it. Weird.

[Bertha Venation]

3. Were we each other in a former life?

I hope we get over it, raccoon. :hug:

(Rx helps me along when I need it.)

[tigereye]

4. yes - it does take a while though - I really think it's a result of too much

work being piled on hyper-responsible people.

Try to adapt to the idea that most problems can be solved in a reasonable way, most co-workers and clients are reasonable, you are skilled enough to handle those problems (it won't be the end of the world) and that things will work out.

I really think folk's brains get used to "Panic/fight or flight" mode and you have to give yourself time to adapt and calm down. Take a deep breath and think positive, maybe picture a time when you were relaxed.


Therapy is good, too, or a book about reducing anxiety. Good luck.

[BlueIris]

5. There's nothing worse than workplace bullying.

Nothing. Easily on par with all other forms of abuse and trauma I can think of.

[Odin2005]

6. I still have nightmares over having autistic metldowns at a Mongolian grill I worked at...

...in 2006. TOO MANY PEOPLE and WAY TOO CROWDED.