It is quite common for an individual to suffer an injury during work at one point or another. Some of the most frequent workplace injuries include slips, trips and falls, being hit by falling objects, crashes and collisions, as well as being exposed to or inhaling toxic substances. At times, the victim manages to recover from a workplace injury fully. Yet, other times, they may suffer lingering effects, even when the injury has long passed. These later effects may not even be physical but can manifest mentally in PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder.
PTSD is a disorder in which an individual has trouble overcoming a harrowing or traumatic event. The condition may last anywhere from months to even years, with certain triggers or strong negative reactions interfering with an individual’s day-to-day functioning. This may especially become difficult when the event occurs at work, preventing the victim from performing properly during their job. While individuals will often show similar symptoms, it is important to remember that not every case is the same, and symptoms can vary from person to person or even overtime for a single person.
Signs of PTSD to Look Out For
PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four categories: intrusive memories, avoidance, changes in physical and/or emotional reactions, and negative changes in thinking and/or mood.
Intrusive memories may include:
- Reliving the event after it has occurred (as in flashbacks)
- Nightmares or recurring dreams about the incident
- Being triggered or suffering emotional distress as a result of the event
- Relentless thoughts and memories of the trauma
- Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the incident
Avoidance may include:
- Avoiding people, objects, or places that may remind you of the occurrence (which may be your place of work)
- Actively trying not to think or speak about the event
Changes in physical and/or emotional reactions may include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability, outbursts, or problems controlling your anger
- Difficulty concentrating
- Overwhelming thoughts of guilt and shame
- Being startled or frightened easily
- Dangerous or self-destructive behavior
Negative changes in thinking and/or mood may include:
- Feeling foggy, numb, or having memory trouble (especially in regards to the incident)
- Shutting down or repressing your feelings
- Feeling hopeless either currently or about the future
- Feeling detached from friends, family, and other loved ones
- Depression or difficulty experiencing positive thoughts and emotions
It is imperative to detect the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and actively seek treatment in order to get better. If you or someone you know is exhibiting the above symptoms, talk to a work injury doctor to begin treatment for your mental health. The result of a work-related injury, PTSD and other mental ailments should be covered under your work accident claim.
Call us today at (713) 231-5507 for a free consultation and start the journey to overcoming your PTSD symptoms.
As always, seek out emergency help immediately if you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
