4 min read

Supporting Employees with PTSD: A Guide for Employers

Man leaning against gray wa
Photo by Blake Connally / Unsplash

Can you imagine your most traumatic memories never truly ending? For those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), these memories often linger, disrupting daily life. As an employer or manager, understanding and addressing PTSD in the workplace is crucial for fostering a supportive, productive environment. This article explores PTSD in the workplace and provides strategies for employers to support affected employees.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. In the workplace, its effects can be far-reaching, impacting both the individual and the organization.

Key Statistics:

  • PTSD affects 6 out of every 100 people and 7 out of every 100 veterans
  • Women are more frequently affected by PTSD than men (10–12% of women vs. 5-6% of men)
  • PTSD costs the U.S. economy more than $42 billion annually
"PTSD can significantly impact an individual's ability to function in the workplace. However, with proper support and accommodations, many employees with PTSD can thrive in their roles." - Dr. Sarah Johnson, clinical psychologist specializing in workplace mental health

Recognizing PTSD Symptoms

Employees with PTSD may face challenges completing tasks, and everyday workplace actions can trigger distressing memories. It's crucial to recognize potential symptoms and understand how to offer meaningful support.

Some symptoms that may arise that you can see are:

Behavioral Symptoms:

  • Increased irritability or frustration
  • Excessive self-blame or blaming others
  • Frequent negative self-talk
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
  • Heightened startle response
  • Persistent tension or restlessness
  • Engaging in risky or self-destructive behavior
  • Difficulty expressing positive emotions

Emotional Symptoms: 

  • Feelings of loneliness or isolation
  • Pervasive negative thinking
  • Emotional numbness

Source: NIMH and Mayo Clinic

Supporting Employees with PTSD

PTSD can become a dark and personalized prison for those who suffer it, and it can feel hopeless and inescapable for many. That is why it is important for those surrounded by those afflicted to learn how to be supportive. Here are some things you can do as a leader to help your workforce:

1) Gain a Deeper Understanding of PTSD

While it may seem obvious, educating yourself about PTSD is a critical first step. The more informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to offer effective support. Additionally, taking time to understand an individual employee’s specific experience with PTSD allows you to provide tailored assistance, as symptoms and triggers vary.

Some excellent resources to learn more directly from health professionals would be the Mayo Clinic, the NIMH, and the WHO.

2) Tailor Responsibilities

Once you've gained a thorough understanding of an employee's PTSD, you can adjust their responsibilities accordingly. For some, tasks involving sudden loud noises, chaotic environments, or high-pressure situations may exacerbate their symptoms. It's essential to customize the workplace to accommodate individual needs and identify potential triggers that could cause distress.

Some employees may also find specific dates, topics, or situations linked to their traumatic experience difficult to manage. By thoughtfully organizing tasks and minimizing exposure to these triggers, you create a more supportive work environment.

3) Provide Reasonable Accommodations

Collaborating with HR to design a personalized accommodation plan can significantly improve the work experience for employees with PTSD. Examples of reasonable accommodations include:

  • Noise-canceling headphones to reduce auditory stress.
  • Scheduled breaks to allow mental decompression.
  • Adjustments to workplace lighting.
  • Allowing music through headsets to create a calming atmosphere.
  • Permission to make personal calls to supportive individuals during the day.
  • Conducting disability awareness training for other employees.

Source: ICSEW

4) Regular Check-Ins

Consistent, compassionate check-ins can make a meaningful difference for employees managing PTSD. Regularly reaching out helps build trust and reassures the employee that their well-being is a priority. These conversations also provide opportunities to identify areas where additional support may be needed.

5) Offer Mental Health Resources 

Employers can offer books, websites, workshops, or support groups. Some with PTSD may not know where to begin in addressing their disorder, and the opportunity for them to talk about it may help. This, in addition to check-ins, can be a great catalyst for seeking further help and combating the disorder, especially when they know they are not alone in their position.

It's important to note that employers have legal obligations when it comes to accommodating employees with PTSD. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified employees with disabilities, including those with PTSD.

As an employer or manager, you may not always be aware of an employee's condition. It's crucial to respect privacy and avoid probing for personal health information, as this is legally protected. When in doubt, consult with legal and mental health professionals to ensure you're providing support in a responsible and compliant manner.

The Importance of Company Culture

Creating a supportive work environment for employees with PTSD is not just a moral imperative—it's also good for business. By understanding the condition, recognizing its symptoms, and implementing supportive strategies, employers can help affected employees thrive while fostering a more inclusive and productive workplace for all.

How Frankly Improves Employee Mental Wellness 

Supporting employees by giving them the tools to manage their mental health can have numerous benefits for your team's well-being and your business as a whole. Frankly’s is a responsive, personalized solution with a comprehensive mix of services, and includes effective employee outreach that ensures those services are utilized. Our wellness services solution can complement an existing health benefits plan, and build out a robust support system for your employees. 

To learn more about how Frankly can support your team's mental wellness, book a 15-minute demo.

Kakhaber Bazerashvili