How do you deal with emotional flashbacks at work？
After years of dissociating, I have only just starting realising how often I experience emotional flashbacks and how much they negatively impact my life. My workplace now require us to be in the office the majority of the week and we are fully open plan with no available meeting rooms. I am really struggling to cope when I am triggered to a flashback - normally I would sit by myself and take time to re-centre myself - but that isn’t an option at work. I have tried taking a walk but it makes me feel very unsafe and anxious.
Would be grateful for any tips re dealing with this.
Emotional flashbacks can be challenging, especially in a work environment that doesn't offer privacy. It's important to create a toolkit of coping strategies. One approach is grounding exercises, such as focusing on your breath or the sensations of your feet on the ground. Communicating openly with HR about your needs may help foster a more supportive workplace. It’s also useful to establish a signal with trusted colleagues, so they can provide support if they notice you are having a difficult moment. Additionally, consider structured breaks where you can step outside for fresh air or practice mindfulness techniques to regain focus. Utilizing resources like employee assistance programs can also be beneficial, providing professional help when needed. Lastly, journaling your experiences might reveal patterns and triggers, allowing for active management in similar scenarios in the future.
Be careful with approaching topics of mental health with HR and managers. They work for the company’s best interest and not yours. If you speak to them and you feel like you are receiving retaliation or harassment, speak to an attorney.