Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as military combat, natural disasters, accidents, physical or sexual assault, or other life-threatening/negative events.
The symptoms of PTSD can vary but generally fall into four main categories:: intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms can vary over time or vary from person to person and these can come and go over the years.
- Intrusive thoughts: This includes recurrent and distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the traumatic event.
- Avoidance: Individuals with PTSD may actively avoid places, activities, or people that remind them of the traumatic event. They may also try to avoid thinking or talking about it.
- Negative changes in thinking and mood: People with PTSD may experience negative thoughts or feelings about themselves or the world around them. They may have difficulty remembering parts of the traumatic event or have a diminished interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others.
- Changes in reactions: feeling/being irritable, having difficulty sleeping, being easily startled, or having trouble concentrating.
PTSD can significantly impact a person’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being as well as those around them. It’s also hard to try and help someone when they cannot /do not want to admit they are acting out of character.
If you feel that one of your employees may be suffering from PTSD, please don’t avoid the issue; someone they are closer with may be best to broach the subject if you don’t feel that person is you.
If you have any health insurance cover for staff, then they would be able to get a number of counselling sessions potentially.
