PTSD, Work, and Your Community
Posttraumatic stress disorder
(PTSD) can change your relationship with your community. Some
people may shy away from you because of your PTSD. Getting
work or finding a place to live may be more challenging.
But
you are in control of how your community views you. The way
you act and treat others can help influence people's attitudes
about PTSD.
Stigma
People
sometimes have negative views about things they don't know
much about, such as mental illness. This is called stigma.
Because
of stigma about PTSD, others may look down on you because
of your condition. People may believe things about PTSD that
aren't true, which can cause them to treat you and your family
differently.
Some
people may have good intentions but still feel uncomfortable
when they find out you have PTSD. This can make it difficult
to find a job or a place to live.
Stigma
occurs when others:
Don't
understand PTSD
Don't realize that PTSD is an illness that can be treated
Think that mental illness is "your own fault" or
that you can "get over it."
Are afraid they might catch what you have
Think PTSD makes you dangerous
You
may feel shame or guilt about having PTSD. You may not want
an employer or even your friends to know. This is called "self-stigma,"
and it can keep you from getting treatment or finding work.
Respecting
yourself is an important part of your recovery. Don't let
guilt or shame keep you from getting help. Getting treatment
can help you get better.
Your
attitude and actions can influence what others think. Be honest
with people and show them who you really are. When you help
people understand PTSD, they are more likely to get past their
negative views.
Here
are some ways you can help others better understand PTSD:
Let
them know that PTSD is a medical condition that can be treated.
Talk about your recovery. This will help them understand the
challenges you face
Show them your strengths and talents. Don't let PTSD keep
you from going after things you want to do
Remember that "you are the message." You can show
how you want to be treated by the way you act. Treating yourself
with respect can set an example for everyone
Accept that you may need breaks during activities. Your symptoms
may make it harder to focus on things for a long time
Work with your family and doctor to set manageable goals.
Let them know what changes you want to make in your life.
Work
and unemployment
Work
is an important part of your life and your identity. Having
a job helps you feel better about yourself and your future.
It gives you a chance to connect with others. Work also provides
needed income, and it gives you a chance to learn and grow
as a person.
Because
of stigma about PTSD, some employers may have concerns about
hiring you. This can make it harder for you to get the job
you want. If you have a job already, you may feel stressed
or nervous at work. Or you may be worn out from not getting
enough sleep. Getting treatment for your symptoms will help
improve your ability to work.
Most
communities have resources, such as a local job service, which
can help you find a job.
Community services include:
Job
skills training. This covers getting ready for interviews,
preparing resumes, and other skills needed to find work
On-the-job training placement. This helps you get work experience
Non-paid work experience placement. This may be volunteer
work that can help you make connections and get experience
Special employer incentive placement. This makes it easier
for employers to hire you.
Substance
abuse, a common problem with PTSD, may make it hard to find
a job. If you have this problem, talk to your doctor about
getting drug or alcohol treatment such as counseling. You
can find counseling through churches or through drug and alcohol
rehab programs.
Getting help finding work or housing
Stigma
about PTSD can make it hard to find work, and even finding
housing can be a problem. But many cities have a local job
service, employment office, or state health and welfare office.
These organizations can help you get work or find a place
to live. You also can find information about these services
on the Internet.
Your
doctor or a local church may be able to connect you with services
that can help. Your doctor also may refer you to a social
worker or case manager who can help you find a place to live.
Back
to the Top
|
