Jobs for PTSD Sufferers

PTSD is an example of one of the conditions that can have a huge impact on your mental health, and if you suffer from it long term, it could even be considered a disability. In this guide, we’re looking into jobs for PTSD sufferers and what sort of provisions can be made to help those with the disorder.

PTSD and The Impact on Jobs

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychological condition caused by an event involving the threat of death, serious injury, or traumatic experience.

It’s not unusual for sufferers to experience flashbacks and nightmares as well as feelings like anger or depression that can last a long time after the incident has passed. PTSD may also cause physical effects, such as increased heart rate and panic attacks.

If it impacts your life for over a year in the UK it could be considered a disability, and therefore lead you to consider your employment rights and how it might impact your performance and enjoyment in a job. Putting your own health first is essential.

Finding the best jobs for veterans with PTSD can be a challenge, but it can help you to function at a higher level.

Careers for PTSD Sufferers

As well as accessing additional support, you can find specific job roles and career choices that are more suitable than others if you have PTSD.

Jobs that are better-suited to PTSD sufferers include:

  • Counselling or therapy roles. It is possible that you want to help others as a result of your experience, as long as it won’t trigger anxiety caused by PTSD.
  • Creative arts. Jobs in the creative arts, such as writing or graphic design, can be a good way of expressing yourself and your experiences.
  • Customer service roles. Working with people can help you to feel supported and understood.
  • Library roles. Working in a quiet environment with little stress can help you to focus on the job at hand.
  • Research roles. Particularly those that are interesting and challenging, but don’t require too much direct contact or conversation.
  • Pet sitter or dog walking. This can be a great way to help others, as well as providing some company and support for yourself. This kind of outdoor job can be ideal.
  • Software development or web design. These are occupations that let you use your skills and creativity while working in a safe environment.

These are just some examples of the best jobs for people with PTSD. Before taking on any role, you should consider whether it is going to be a quiet environment, or whether it will be within a stressful space that could heighten feelings of anxiety or lead you to struggle. Some roles such as military service could make your PTSD symptoms worse.

Roles to Avoid With PTSD

Some jobs can even be the cause of PTSD. It is important that you avoid any roles that have the potential to cause stress and make the condition worse, including:

  • Military roles
  • Police
  • Security roles
  • Firefighters
  • First response roles
  • Any other job you fear might make your PTSD worse

Finding a Disability-Friendly Employer

Whether you consider your PTSD a disability or not, finding an employer that offers support is helpful for PTSD sufferers.

Employers must offer reasonable adjustments to help you, but those who are actively recruiting in a disability-friendly way are more likely to go out of their way to help you through. Many employers have experience in helping those with mental disorders or an anxiety disorder in their roles.

For employers who are always understanding of your conditions, you can check out our latest job opportunities. It is easy to see if there is a role that is suitable for you and in the local area (or offering remote work).

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