Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Specific symptoms usually present themselves shortly after exposure to the traumatic event and in most people, these symptoms spontaneously resolve with no lasting effects within a few days. In a minority of people however, the symptoms persist.

Repeatedly reliving the traumatic event in a number of ways, including intrusive unwanted memories or nightmares.

Symptoms of hypervigilance and anxiety, or a tendency to be irritable and angry at the slightest provocation.

The individual will avoid thoughts and feelings related to the traumatic experience or reminders of it – effectively acting as a coping mechanism. Symptoms include avoidance of activities, places or people which remind them of their trauma, resulting in a tendency to isolate themselves.

• Disrupted sleep patterns or nightmares
• Irritability, sometimes extending into heightened feelings of anger with tendencies to become verbally or physically aggressive
• High levels of anxiety
• Avoidance of activities, places or people, which remind them of the trauma
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Feelings of being detached from daily life
• Feelings of guilt
• Difficulty relating to authority figures.

• Isolation from friends and family
• Often a sense of shame or stigma will prevent the individual from accessing help or support, exacerbating the sense of isolation
• Can often lead to the onset of other issues, such as depression, or drug or alcohol dependency
• Onset of phobias can lead to irrational or unpredictable behaviour, resulting in chaotic or disorganised lifestyle
• Aggressive behaviours can result in confrontation or refusal of access to services.

• Additional support may be required in the first few weeks as the individual familiarises themselves with the environment and their colleagues
• Appointment of a workplace buddy or mentor to provide personal support
• Identify any potential workplace activities that may trigger particular levels of stress or anxiety
• Gain emergency contact details from the individual and understand when these should be used
• Ask the individual about medication they are taking and possible side effects that may have a workplace implication – it may be that the individual works flexible hours to avoid early mornings when fatigue is at its worst
• Look out for tell-tale signs of the individual becoming stressed, for example, agitation or fidgeting. Suggest they take a break and ask the individual if they are okay
• Be mindful that the individual may need to leave a situation suddenly - often it is best to be seated near an entrance or exit to reduce anxiety.