The Many Faces of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of their age, gender, or race. PTSD is brought on by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic, often life-threatening event. At particular risk are individuals who work in occupations where they are repeatedly exposed to trauma under high levels of stress. Also at risk are people who experience trauma in childhood and people with a family history of mental health and addiction disorders. Understanding how PTSD develops, what makes people vulnerable, and factors promoting resilience can help first responders navigate trauma recovery.

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that may develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic or life-threatening event. The reactions and emotions that people experience after a traumatic event will vary, though many recover from these initial symptoms over time. Some people struggle to return to normal functioning after a traumatic event. Individuals who continue to face challenges when trying to return to normal functioning may be exhibiting symptoms of PTSD. Additionally, those who frequently experience stress or fear related to the incident—even when no immediate danger is present—might also meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis.

How PTSD Can Develop

Although PTSD is commonly linked to traumatic events experienced by military personnel or first responders, PTSD symptoms can develop in anyone through several different ways:

• Directly experiencing a traumatic event

• Witnessing a traumatic event

• Learning someone close to you experienced or was threatened by a traumatic event

• Repeated exposure to graphic details of traumatic events

Critical factors that increase a person’s vulnerability and influence the development of PTSD:

• Perceived personal safety was threatened

• Unable to deescalate emotions and reactions after a traumatic event

• Multiple stressors present in life, such as going through a divorce or recent loss of a loved one

• Self-judging or being critical of one's reaction to the event

• Degree of perceived responsibility for the event

• Being personally connected to, or can relate and identify with persons directly impacted by a traumatic event

Resilience factors that may reduce the risk of PSTD:

• Seeks support from others, such as family, friends, or qualified medical professionals

• Joins a support group after a traumatic event

• Develops positive coping strategies, and learns about and adopts practices to overcome the event

• Is able to act and respond effectively despite feelings of insecurity and fear

Prevalence of PTSD

As PTSD begins to become well-known, more individuals are beginning to come forward with PTSD concerns. Over 70% of Canadians have been exposed to at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, and nearly 1 out of 10 Canadians may develop PTSD at some point in their lives—the number is even higher in public safety personnel. It’s estimated that about 20-45% of public safety officers have PTSD or another mental health issue.

Although PTSD is a distinct disorder, it can be accompanied by other conditions. PTSD is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, and substance use as a coping strategy. PTSD often leads to impaired daily functioning and interpersonal difficulties. It also poses an increased risk for suicidal thoughts.

Common Symptoms of PTSD:

• Intrusive Memories – such as flashbacks, bad dreams/nightmares, or frightening thoughts, that may affect someone’s everyday routine.

• Avoidance and Numbing – such as staying away from places, events or objects that are reminders, or avoiding feelings and thoughts related to the traumatic event.

• Physical and Emotional Reactions – such as muscle tension, sweating, increased heart rate or having angry outbursts, difficulty sleeping, feeling on edge, and being easily startled. These affect daily tasks and are usually constant.

• Negative Thoughts and Mood Changes – such as trouble recalling features of the traumatic event, negative thoughts about oneself, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, and unnatural feelings of guilt or shame. These symptoms can become progressively worse and can cause someone to alienate or detach themselves from friends or family.

PTSD and Work Impairment

People suffering with PTSD may show various symptoms at work as outlined in the table.

Table of Trauma & PTSD Impact on Mental Health & Work Impairment

The following strategies can be used to advocate for yourself and support colleagues with PTSD:

1. Keep lines of communication open – communicate with your manager regarding any issues and be an empathetic listener to your colleagues.

2. Your individual challenges and symptoms are unique to you.

3. Suggest your workplace raise awareness of PTSD and its symptoms, so people can be more understanding of what those with PTSD may be going through and be more patient and sensitive when dealing with others.

Coping with Trauma

Coping with trauma is challenging. Your first course of action is to seek professional help to talk to someone who can help you heal and learn strategies to manage symptoms. The following are additional actions you can take to promote healing:

Build a support network: Connecting with family members, friends, and support groups can provide emotional relief.

Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and keep you grounded.

Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps to improve mood and regulate stress hormones. It also releases endorphins (feel-good hormones) which can improve your sense of well-being.

Establish a daily routine: Structure and predictability can provide a sense of stability and security. This includes eating nutritious meals and snacks at regular times, keeping sleep and rise times the same, daily exercise, and time for self-care and relaxation.

Limit substance use: Alcohol and other substances may seem like an escape but often worsen symptoms and can lead to substance abuse issues.

Express your emotions creatively: Writing, creating art, doodling, or playing music can be therapeutic outlets. These offer a way to express feelings that might be too complicated to communicate verbally.

Educate yourself about PTSD: Understanding PTSD can reduce feelings of shame or isolation.

Healing from PTSD

Individuals suffering from PTSD may engage in various coping mechanisms on their own with limited improvement. They may continue to experience challenges with work and/or home life, and often feel like every aspect of life is regressing before seeking and accepting help.

Although many find it difficult to take that first step in getting help, with treatment you can get better. Treatment may help improve symptoms by:

• Teaching you skills to address your symptoms

• Learning ways to cope should any symptoms arise again

• Helping you think more positively about yourself, others and the world

• Treating other problems often related to traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, or misuse of substances including alcohol or drugs

Finding Hope and Healing from PTSD

PTSD can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible with the right support, treatment, and coping strategies. Seeking help—whether through therapy, peer support, or self-care practices—can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. With time, understanding, and the right resources, individuals can regain a sense of control, rebuild their resilience, and move forward toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

References

1. Feinstein, A., & Staniloiu, A. (5 February 2021). “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Canada.” Accessed on 5 March 2025.

2. Mayo Clinic Staff. (16 August 2024). “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).” Accessed 5 March 2025.

3. National Institute of Mental Health. (December 2024). “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.” Accessed 5 March 2025.

4. Public Safety Canada. (January 2023). “Evaluation of the Initiatives to Address Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI) Among Public Safety Officers.” Accessed 6 March 2025.