In this enlightening LinkedIn Live session, host Elizabeth Willetts welcomes trauma-informed specialist Sophie Brigden. Drawing from personal encounters with workplace trauma, Sophie underscores the importance of understanding and addressing its effects. She delves into the nuances of workplace trauma, spotlighting exacerbating factors like unsupportive work environments and inadequate coping mechanisms. Advocating for a culture of understanding, Sophie emphasises the significance of fostering spaces where individuals can openly discuss their challenges. She also introduces techniques to stabilise the central nervous system, highlighting the need to incorporate feminine energy in traditionally masculine corporate terrains. A viewer’s poignant recount of trauma in a male-dominated sector and the ensuing legal ordeal underscores the discussion’s relevance. Throughout, Sophie passionately urges individuals to prioritise their well-being and to actively seek the support they need.
Enjoyed this conversation? Then check out this podcast episode with Sophie, where we discuss how Sophie tackled trauma and triumphed in a male-dominated world.
Timestamps:
Understanding Workplace Trauma [00:01:05] Sophie explains the definition of workplace trauma and the different types of traumatic events that can occur.
Symptoms and Predispositions of Workplace Trauma [00:02:29] Sophie discusses the spectrum of responses and symptoms that can result from workplace trauma, as well as the predispositions that can contribute to developing vicarious trauma.
Factors that Exacerbate Workplace Trauma [00:03:39] Sophie talks about the role of unsupportive environments, non-empathetic leadership, and personal experiences in exacerbating workplace trauma.
Topic 1: Dysregulation and the need for clinical support [00:10:11] The speaker discusses their personal experience of trauma and the importance of seeking clinical support when experiencing dysregulation and worsening symptoms.
Topic 2: Strategies to calm the central nervous system [00:11:29] The speaker suggests mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga as effective strategies to calm the central nervous system. They also mention the need for stronger interventions for individuals experiencing rumination, flashbacks, and hypervigilance.
Topic 3: Getting comfortable with emotions and sitting with difficult emotions [00:14:00] Sophie emphasises the importance of getting in touch with one’s body and being comfortable with emotions. They discuss the tendency to avoid difficult emotions through busyness and strategies to sit with emotions.
The trauma caused by a male-dominated environment [00:19:37] Discussion about a woman’s experience of trauma in a male-dominated workplace and her subsequent legal battle.
The impact of trauma on a person’s sense of justice [00:21:53] Exploration of how traumatic events can lead to a sense of moral injury and injustice.
Steps to address and heal from workplace trauma [00:24:52] Advice on listening to oneself, seeking support, and considering values when dealing with trauma in the workplace.
Show Links:
Be Your Best Website
Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn
Connect with Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn
Investing in Women Flexible Working Job Board and Recruitment Site