Anxiety is developed from any given experience perceived as severely traumatic to an individual. Once he or she is given time to process this trauma the end result may be an illness known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – once called shell shock. PTSD can affect a person physically, mentally, emotionally, and interfere with interpersonal relationships, i.e., spousal, parental, occupational.
PTSD is one of the most debilitating anxiety disorders that can occur after your safety or life is threatened, or after you experience or see a traumatic event (Lange). Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include violent personal assault such as rape or mugging, a catastrophic accident such as auto, airplane, or mining, natural disasters, or military combat (Internet Cite). About 4% of the population will experience symptoms of PTSD in a given year. Everyday more people show some symptoms of this disorder. Although it was thought to be a disorder that primarily affected military personnel that have served in heavy combat, research now shows that PTSD can and does affect anyone.
PTSD has a profound affect on working relationships and work performance. Persons suffering from PTSD can hold down a job and do their job well. Work performance, for any individual, is determined by the balance of internal or external stressors and that individual’s tolerance for stress. Because of the stigma about PTSD, some employers may have concerns about hiring personnel with PTSD. This can make it harder for you to get the job you want. If you already have a job, 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 and stay employed (Baker 2006).
PTSD can be a challenge for suffers and their family to deal with. PTSD personnel family may find it difficult to accept some of the changes PTSD can bring to there lives. It’s also important that...