Workplace sexual harassment refers to unwanted and inappropriate behavior of a sexual nature in the workplace. It can include physical actions, such as inappropriate touching, sexual jokes, suggestive remarks, or displaying sexually explicit images in the workplace. Research has shown that one in three women admit to being victims of workplace sexual harassment. Studies have shown that 7% of men are victims of sexual harassment, and men in the military are at a greater risk of being victims of sexual harassment. Yes, sexual harassment does not only affect women. Men, too, are affected.
Workplace sexual harassment can have severe mental health effects. Below, we discuss the mental effects of workplace sexual harassment.
Immediate Effects
Sexual harassment is a traumatic and distressing event. In the aftermath of workplace sexual harassment, an employee may experience overwhelming anxiety. They may not feel like going to work because they fear encountering the harasser. Often, victims of workplace sexual harassment have trouble sleeping, experience panic attacks, and may have difficulty concentrating. Depression is also a common effect of workplace sexual harassment. Depression can rob a victim of the joy of everyday life. It can diminish motivation, making it hard for the victim to focus on or enjoy things they once enjoyed. A victim of workplace sexual harassment may struggle with feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and self-blame. They may believe they are somehow to blame for the harassment or that they deserve it. In the most severe cases, a workplace sexual harassment victim may struggle with thoughts of self-harm.
Long-Term Effects
Unfortunately, workplace sexual harassment can lead to more severe mental health issues in the long term. Victims may develop PTSD. Victims may constantly have nightmares or flashbacks about the harassment. It is also not uncommon for victims of workplace sexual harassment to develop chronic depression. Chronic depression is a long-term form of depression that persists for at least two years. Chronic depression can lead to ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Victims may also struggle with chronic anxiety, which features persistent and excessive worry or fear. A person with chronic anxiety may experience symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, restlessness, and fatigue.
Professional and Social Impact
Workplace sexual harassment affects victims not only mentally but also professionally and socially. Victims may experience a decline in productivity, job performance, and career advancement due to the emotional toll of sexual harassment. Victims may struggle to trust, resulting in strained relationships with people in the workplace. Socially, victims of workplace sexual harassment may withdraw from friends and family. It may be hard for victims to feel at ease or safe, even with family and friends. Unfortunately, this withdrawal can worsen mental health issues and affect a person’s overall well-being.
If you are a victim of workplace sexual harassment and are struggling, you should know that you are not alone. Do not suffer in silence. Reach out to an experienced workplace sexual harassment lawyer. An attorney can help protect your rights and pursue justice.
Contact The Trabosh Law Firm
If you or someone you know has been a victim of workplace sexual harassment, the skilled New Jersey employment lawyer at The Trabosh Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.