Dealing with Public Humiliation at Work: A Mental Health Perspective

My supervisor publicly called me out by name and cursed at me?

Hello, Doctor.
A couple of days ago, I encountered a situation at work.
Initially, it was just a misunderstanding in communication with my supervisor.
However, I did not disrespect her or speak ill of her behind her back.
At that moment, she simply said, "...let's leave it at that," and we both returned to our workstations.
The next day, my supervisor brought up the misunderstanding from the previous day regarding another issue and publicly called me out in front of the department, using profanity and accusing me of disrespecting her and speaking negatively about her behind her back.
I know that labor laws clearly state that if a supervisor engages in verbal humiliation, employees have the right to resign immediately.
Some friends have suggested that I could file a complaint against her, but for various reasons, I would like to stay at this job.
I do not want to avoid the issue; I want to resolve this situation.
However, since the incident, I have been trying to suppress my emotions at work.
When I return home, I can't stop crying, and images of being publicly berated at the office keep replaying in my mind.
I finally manage to fall asleep, but I wake up crying a few hours later.
Yesterday, Saturday, I had to go to work again, and I continued to hold back my emotions.
Today is Sunday, and all hospitals and clinics are closed.
I don't know what to do, so I decided to seek your advice.
Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Youzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/27

Dr. Su Zongwei reply Psychiatry

It seems that you are experiencing some issues at work, but whether your situation has reached the level of a disorder can only be determined after a diagnosis at an outpatient clinic.
If the situation is not severe, I recommend that you first engage in self-adjustment and relaxation, go out for some fresh air, maintain a regular diet and sleep schedule, and use exercise to relieve stress.
However, if the situation is serious, it is essential to seek treatment at a psychiatric outpatient clinic.
I hope you recover soon.

Reply Date: 2008/07/27

More Info

Dealing with public humiliation at work can be an incredibly challenging experience, especially when it affects your mental health and overall well-being. It’s important to acknowledge the emotional turmoil that can arise from such incidents, as they can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and a sense of isolation. Your situation, where a misunderstanding escalated into public humiliation, is not uncommon in workplace dynamics, and it’s crucial to address both the emotional and practical aspects of this experience.

Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that your feelings of distress are valid. Being publicly criticized, especially in front of colleagues, can lead to a significant emotional impact. The feelings of shame, embarrassment, and anger that you are experiencing are natural responses to such an event. It’s important to allow yourself to process these emotions rather than suppress them. Crying and feeling overwhelmed are normal reactions, and it’s okay to seek support during this time.

From a mental health perspective, it’s crucial to develop coping strategies to manage the emotional fallout from this incident. Here are some suggestions:
1. Talk About It: Consider discussing your feelings with someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Sharing your experience can help you process your emotions and gain perspective.

2. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to express what you’re going through. It can help you clarify your emotions and reflect on the situation.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help reduce anxiety and promote emotional regulation. These techniques can be particularly useful when you find yourself ruminating on the incident.

4. Set Boundaries: If possible, try to limit interactions with your supervisor until you feel more comfortable. This can help create a sense of safety as you navigate your feelings about the situation.

5. Focus on Solutions: Since you expressed a desire to resolve the issue rather than escape it, consider how you might approach a constructive conversation with your supervisor. If you feel safe doing so, you could request a private meeting to discuss the misunderstanding and clarify your intentions. Approach the conversation with a mindset of seeking understanding rather than confrontation.

6. Seek Professional Help: If your feelings of distress persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide you with tailored strategies to cope with the emotional impact of workplace humiliation and help you develop resilience.

7. Know Your Rights: While you mentioned the labor laws regarding verbal abuse, it’s essential to be informed about your rights in the workplace. If the situation does not improve or escalates, you may need to consider reporting the behavior to HR or seeking legal advice.

8. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s engaging in a hobby, exercising, or spending time with loved ones, these activities can help restore your emotional balance.

In conclusion, navigating the aftermath of public humiliation at work requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both emotional and practical concerns. It’s important to prioritize your mental health and seek support as you work through this challenging experience. Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you cope and find a path forward.

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