Living with PTSD can be traumatic to say the least. One minute, you can be happy in a great mood, the next minute you encounter one of your triggers and you feel as if you’re falling into a black pit of despair. PTSD can come from many experiences that one could encounter, and each reason is just as valid as the next. Car crashes are one of the more common traumatic experiences, and even those don’t necessarily need a trigger, especially if the event only recently occurred. These tips will help you manage your PTSD while you’re having to work.
Know that it’s okay to take a leave
Sometimes there are days or weeks that are far worse than others. This is especially prevalent if you’ve just had the traumatic experience. You’re going through so much right now in trying to handle the situation. This includes dealing with a car crash lawyer, sorting out any bills (such as medical bills), dealing with an investigation, and also just trying to readjust to your life.
Since you’re going through so much, you should cut yourself some slack. You don’t need to be physically injured in order to take leave from work. If you’re sincerely struggling to focus at work or even outside of work, then it’s important to know that during the recovery process you should take things slow.
PTSD can affect your work
Trying to push something you can’t entirely handle is a habit that can be negatively affecting your health. If you’re going through a stressful episode, just understand that it’s going to be reflected on the work you do. Some symptoms you could be experiencing having PTSD in the Workplace can include:
- Difficulties concentration
- Processing information slow
- Emotional outburst
- Getting startled easily
- Clouded judgement
There can be other symptoms, even some that you don’t understand or notice yourself. These can become worse if there isn’t an action plan.
Understand that you’re not in this alone
You don’t have to be isolated during this traumatic experience. There is always a support system there to help you out. This can include your spouse, friends, family, or even seeking a mental health professional service for this. PTSD is something that you shouldn’t try to ignore, it will only get worse the more you try to push it back. What you’re feeling is valid and it’s normal. It doesn’t mean that you’re weak, a bad worker, or anything.
Talk to your boss or coworkers about the situation
While mental health unfortunately still doesn’t get the much needed attention that it deserves, it’s best to go ahead and just talk to your boss or someone else that oversees you. They should know what you’re going through and they should know that your performance may not be the same for some time.
If you’re someone who owns your own business, then it’s best to just begin taking things slow with your business and briefly explain to your clients that you’re dealing with a stressful situation. Overall, it’s best to not feel closed off or ashamed of this. You’re still a normal person, and you should recognize how strong you are.