Navigating Workplace Stress and Trauma: Achieving Work-Life Balance for Healing and Growth
The Challenge of Balancing Work and Personal Well-being
If you’ve experienced trauma or struggle with low self-esteem, navigating the demands of the workplace can often feel overwhelming. You might find yourself replaying past painful experiences while trying to meet deadlines, interact with colleagues, or maintain a sense of control in a fast-paced environment.
Research shows that chronic workplace stress can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and negatively impact emotional health, especially for individuals with a history of trauma. The good news is that by fostering a supportive work environment and implementing practical strategies, it's possible to thrive professionally while protecting your mental health.
Common Pain Points in the Workplace
Fear of Criticism or Failure:
For individuals with low self-esteem, every task at work can feel like a test of their worth. Negative feedback or even constructive criticism may trigger feelings of shame or inadequacy rooted in past experiences.
Overwhelmed by Responsibilities:
A history of painful past experiences often leads to heightened stress responses. When the workload piles up, the feeling of being overwhelmed can mimic the helplessness of past traumatic events.
Difficulty Setting Boundaries:
Survivors of trauma may have difficulty asserting themselves, leading to taking on too many responsibilities. In turn, this can result in burnout and reinforce feelings of unworthiness.
In this blog, I’m sharing actionable tips to help you manage workplace stress, achieve work-life balance, and create a supportive environment. You deserve to feel empowered and confident at work.
Hi, I’m Amanda Parmley, MA, LCMHC
I am a counselor in Carolina Beach, NC, and I specialize in helping adults improve self-esteem, decrease anxiety, and move past trauma. I provide EMDR & other evidence-cased approaches to help clients process the deep-rooted beliefs and experiences that keep them stuck in cycles of stress, self-doubt, and anxiety.
Ready to start therapy?
Click the button below to get started in therapy with me. Don’t let stress or self-doubt keep holding you back. Keep reading to learn actionable steps you can take to reduce stress and improve your workplace experience.
Building Balance and Resilience in the Workplace
A thriving professional life doesn’t have to come at the expense of your emotional well-being. Here are practical strategies to support your mental health at work:
Develop a Morning Grounding Routine
Starting the day with mindfulness or grounding exercises can help reduce stress and improve focus. A simple 5-minute practice of deep breathing or visualization can set a positive tone for the day.
Practice Self-Compassion
Replace negative self-talk with affirmations or gentle reminders of your capabilities. This can help you approach challenges with confidence and reduce the fear of failure.
Set Clear Boundaries
Learn to say no to extra responsibilities that jeopardize your work-life balance. Setting boundaries protects your energy and helps prevent burnout.
Seek Support from Trusted Colleagues
Having a support system at work can make all the difference. Whether it’s a mentor, friend, or supervisor, building connections can create a buffer against stress.
Advocate for a Healthy Work Environment
If possible, encourage open conversations about mental health at your workplace. Advocate for changes like flexible schedules or wellness programs that benefit everyone.
Ready to better manage workplace stress?
Living with workplace stress or self-doubt doesn’t have to be your reality. I’m here to help you take steps toward healing and growth. I specialize in trauma therapy, self-esteem building, and stress management. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you navigate work and life with confidence.
How to Start Therapy with Amanda Parmley, MA, LCMHC:
1. Click the button below to request a free 15-minute consultation.
2.
Complete a short intake questionnaire.
3. Complete
the required screener
& take the phone call from Amanda Parmley at the prearranged & agreed-upon time.
4. Start your journey
to feeling better.
Additional Services Offered by Amanda Parmley, MA, LCMHC:
I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety, past trauma and low self-esteem, specifically through the use of EMDR. Experiencing chronic insomnia? I also provide CBT-I.
Interested in counseling and want to use your insurance? I accept many insurance plans. Reach out today to inquire whether I’m network.
Interested in attending counseling in the office? I'm located at 1328 N Lake Park Blvd, STE 109, Carolina Beach, NC 28428. Once you cross over Snow's Cut Bridge, take the first left at the light & I am located in Carolina Beach Pavilion.
Online Counseling
Are you interested in counseling but live too far to commute to the session? If you are located within the state of North Carolina & are interested in online counseling, reach out today to discuss whether this is the right option for you.