How Previous Trauma & Pre-Existing Conditions Increase Risk of Harm & What You Can Do to Prevent Relapse or New Diagnosis

Workplace bullying, which can manifest as verbal abuse, intimidation, or exclusion, is a widespread issue that affects countless individuals worldwide. In my practice, I’ve observed that for individuals with a history of bullying, pre-existing mental health conditions, physical health diagnosis, or neurodiversity, the impact can be even more profound and long-lasting, especially when past trauma or mental health concerns have not been adequately assessed, treated, managed, or healed. These conditions may include, for example, severe ADHD, OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, or chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis, ME/CFS, IBS, or other autoimmune disorders.

Let me be clear: no matter what someone has experienced in the past or what mental or physical health diagnosis they may have, they are never to blame, nor do they ever deserve to be mistreated or abused at work.

The Importance of Self-Responsibility in Mental Health Management

While no one is ever responsible for the abuse they endure, taking responsibility for managing one’s health is essential. Acknowledging past issues and accepting the need for treatment can be difficult—and often painful—but seeking help is a powerful choice that offers the best defense against future crises. It’s understandable why people may struggle with facing trauma or mental health diagnoses, often resorting to avoidance or denial. However, ignoring experiences like childhood abuse, domestic violence, or past bullying can profoundly impact our lives, shaping our relationships, career choices, and the risks we take. This avoidance often becomes a significant barrier to building self-esteem and developing self-worth.

Becoming aware of these emotional wounds and patterns of avoidance is the first step toward self-empowerment and accountability. It’s important to remember that self-forgiveness, self-compassion, and self-commitment are not only possible but necessary for anyone. Once we recognize how our past affects our present, it is in our best interest to prioritize physical and mental health before further complications arise.

Unaddressed emotional pain and unmanaged physical conditions can manifest in various ways, such as gastrointestinal issues like IBS, eating disorders, self-harm, migraines, insomnia, or even a diagnosis of PTSD. It can also lead to difficulties with intimacy, trust, or feeling disconnected from your own body and emotions. Without addressing these wounds, imagine how added long-term stress—such as workplace bullying—can significantly increase your risk of a permanent diagnosis, chronic illness, or even life-threatening conditions.

By confronting these issues head-on, with the help of gentle, safe, and supportive trauma therapies available today, individuals can work toward breaking harmful patterns and fostering a healthier, more confident, and resilient mindset. This is the mindset needed when someone, or even a group (as in mobbing), targets you with abusive behaviors in the workplace. My recovering clients can attest that you will need every ounce of strength, clarity, confidence, and courage to navigate such challenges.

The Critical Need for Self-Care and Treatment

Workplace bullying puts anyone at risk of psychological or physical health injuries. However, for individuals with previous trauma, pre-existing mental health conditions, physical health diagnoses, or neurodiversity, the experience of bullying can be far more painful and overwhelming. When triggered by bullying, unresolved wounds or symptoms can amplify emotional pain, increasing the risk of further injury or relapse.

Consistent self-care and a secure treatment plan are not just helpful in preventing further injury or relapses; they are essential. Maintaining stability through therapy, support groups, medication, work-life balance, self-care, or holistic strategies like yoga, meditation, art therapy, acupuncture, or working with wise elders can help manage symptoms, preserve resilience, and significantly reduce the chances or severity of spiraling downward if bullying or other forms of abuse occur.

Understanding the Risk of Relapse

Without adequate support and a solid treatment foundation, individuals who have faced past bullying or mental health challenges may experience more severe reactions when subjected to new incidents of workplace psychological harassment. These emotional and psychological wounds can reopen, leading to more profound suffering and a more extended recovery period compared to those without such histories. Some may take over three to six months just to be able to relax when on sick leave, delaying their treatment and recovery significantly. A three to six-month delay adds more stress when resources and income are limited. To avoid a lengthy and costly outcome for new cases of harm by bullying, individuals must consciously prioritize mental health and seek the necessary support. It’s not just about surviving the current abuse; it’s about having the right tools and support systems in place to endure and recover without being completely overwhelmed by the weight of past and present experiences.

Empowering Yourself with Treatment and Support

One of the most empowering actions a person can take is to actively engage in self-care and treatment. Many of my clients admit they will quickly jump to help others but second-guess or deprioritize their needs. This mindset needs to change. Whether or not you have a history of trauma or mental health challenges, developing emotional intelligence—such as self-insight, self-trust, healthy boundaries, and an awareness of your triggers and strengths—is one of the best choices anyone can make.

Prioritizing yourself means monitoring your mental health, recognizing triggers, listening to your body, trusting your instincts, and seeking help when necessary. Managing mental health, as stated by Martijn (2020), “is a journey, not a destination.” By taking charge of your well-being, you protect yourself from the impact of future bullying and create space for personal and professional growth. This empowerment is a true testament to your strength and resilience.

Conclusion

No matter what you’ve experienced in your past or what mental health diagnosis you live with, you do not deserve to be bullied or mistreated in the workplace. However, you owe it to yourself to stay healthy and resilient. Prioritizing self-care, consistently engaging in treatment, and building a solid support network can make all the difference. Healing from trauma and maintaining mental health are ongoing processes that demand dedication.

Your commitment to this journey is a testament to your strength and resilience, providing the stability to face life’s challenges with courage and confidence. Our world is not an easy place to be in. We need all the tools, skills, and strength we can muster. Make yourself number one before reaching out to help others. Life is hard, so taking care of yourself is the best gift you can give yourself and those around you.

By Linda Crockett October 12, 2024

Martijn, T. (2020, September 15). Mental health is a journey, not a destination. Niceday. https://niceday.app/en/mental-health-is-a-journey-not-a-destination/

The following is a tool for your self empowerment and self protection.

Workplace Self-Empowerment Self-Assessment Questionnaire

This questionnaire is not a diagnostic tool but a self-assessment designed to help you reflect on your empowerment and areas for growth when facing workplace challenges like bullying. Every person who takes this assessment will likely identify areas where they can further develop themselves, and that’s perfectly normal.

The key here is self-insight—becoming aware of your strengths and the potential risks arising from unresolved issues or a lack of preparation. Once you know these risks, you can take proactive steps to prepare yourself. This preparation includes creating a personal self-care plan, identifying supports, gathering resources, utilizing tools, and joining others on a journey toward greater personal empowerment.

By taking time for this self-assessment, you’re investing in your well-being and strengthening your ability to protect yourself from the adverse effects of workplace bullying. Awareness is the first step toward empowerment.

This questionnaire will help you assess whether you have developed the self-awareness and personal empowerment required to confront workplace bullying with greater clarity, knowledge, and confidence.

 Answer each question honestly (this is for you) using the following scale:

 1 – Strongly Disagree 2 – Disagree 3 – Neutral 4 – Agree 5 – Strongly Agree

Self-Awareness and Emotional Insight

1. I know my past traumas or emotional wounds and how they may influence my reactions at work.
2. I can recognize the early signs of emotional or mental stress in myself (e.g., anxiety, frustration, emotional overwhelm).
3. I understand my triggers (situations, behaviors, or people that cause distress) and how they affect me.
4. I can separate past negative experiences from present workplace challenges.
5. I trust my instincts and feelings when recognizing unhealthy workplace dynamics.

Emotional Regulation and Coping Skill

 I have developed healthy coping strategies to manage my emotions when faced with stressful or abusive situations at work.

1. I regularly practice techniques to manage stress, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation.
2. I can calm myself when feeling overwhelmed without resorting to unhealthy habits (e.g., overworking, avoiding problems).
3. I can stay calm and composed when confronted with difficult situations or people at work.
4. I have learned how to respond to workplace conflict in a way that protects my emotional well-being.

Boundaries and Assertiveness

 I understand the importance of setting healthy workplace boundaries and feel comfortable doing so.

1. I can say “no” when necessary without feeling guilty or anxious.
2. I can assertively communicate my needs, opinions, and feelings, even in challenging situations.
3. I recognize when others cross my boundaries and can address them calmly and confidently.
4. I know how to escalate issues appropriately when workplace bullying or harassment occurs.

Self-Care and Support Systems

1. I prioritize my mental and physical health by maintaining a regular self-care routine.
2. I seek support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist when needed, and I don’t hesitate to ask for help.
3. I regularly engage in activities that bring me joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time in nature.
4. I have strategies for managing work-related stress, such as taking breaks, delegating tasks, and setting realistic goals.
5. I have the resilience and inner strength to handle workplace bullying or difficult work situations.

Evaluation

• Score 80–100: You’ve likely done significant self-work and have the resilience needed to face workplace bullying effectively. Keep prioritizing self-care and maintaining healthy boundaries.
• Score 60–79: You have some strong coping skills, but there may be areas where additional self-work would be beneficial. Consider focusing more on emotional regulation, boundary-setting, or self-care.
• Score 40–59: You may need to invest more time in building self-awareness, emotional resilience, and assertiveness to handle workplace challenges better. Professional support or self-help resources could be helpful.
• A score below 40: Focusing on your well-being before confronting bullying is essential. Self-awareness, emotional insight, and a robust support system will help you become more resilient.

 Workplace bullying is happening every day, and it happens in every profession, industry, institution, culture, or community.

This article and questionnaire aim to empower individuals with insight and knowledge, ultimately helping them prepare with tools for self-protection. Recognizing areas of risk is an empowering step in your journey toward personal empowerment and well-being. By identifying these areas, you have the language and awareness to set clear goals for your self-help, self-care, and treatment plans. This awareness allows you to create a path toward greater strength, personal empowerment, and well-being as you navigate the challenges of workplace bullying.

I know without a doubt that choosing to recover is what brought me to where I am today. I’m stronger, more confident, and more resilient than ever, and proud to be a four-time award-winning business owner of 14 years. I am confident that my work has created positive changes, helped countless individuals, and even saved lives. For all of this, I am truly grateful.

Linda Crockett MSW, RSW, SEP, CPPA