UNSEEN SCARS: POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISODER IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS

The field of health care is notably stressful and demanding. Frontline workers often face traumatic experiences that can have a lasting impact on their mental health. As they work diligently to save lives, their mental health often takes the back seat. Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a silent but significant struggle faced by many frontline healthcare workers, a topic that deserves more attention and understanding. This article will bring to light the hidden toll of PTSD experienced by frontline healthcare workers.

Definition and symptoms of PTSD

PTSD is a serious mental health disorder that may develop in individuals who have been exposed to a traumatic event, either by experiencing it personally or witnessing it happen to someone else. Although its common association with military personnel returning from combat, PTSD can happen to anyone including healthcare workers. Symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety and emotional numbness can significantly impact those in the medical field.

Triggers and Stressors faced by healthcare workers

Healthcare settings present unique triggers and stressors that can exacerbate PTSD symptoms. Imagine being the one to make a decision on which patient to put on a ventilator when you have three in need and sadly the remaining two lose their lives. These high-pressure situations and ethical dilemmas can take a toll on the mental health and well-being of healthcare workers.

 Impact on healthcare workers

Healthcare workers are heroes in the eyes of many but behind the scrubs and stethoscopes are real people with real struggles. PTSD manifests itself in ways that significantly impact their performance and personal relationships. From sleeping disorders, focus related issues to mood swings. These complications may subsequently result in increased medical errors, reduced patient satisfaction and elevated employee attrition rates.

In their personal life, PTSD can lead to strains on relationships with family and friends often causing misunderstandings and disagreements.  Additionally, there is an increased risk of substance misuse as some may turn to alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their distress.

In more severe cases, untreated PTSD heighten the risk of suicidal ideation and actions. The challenges they face at work can echo in their personal life, forming a vicious cycle that can be hard to break without appropriate support and intervention.

Stigma and shame surrounding mental Health in the healthcare community

When it comes to mental health, even healthcare heroes can face an invisible enemy: stigma. The pressure to be pillars f strength for patients some times leaves frontline workers  feeling like seeking help is a sign of weakness. Let’s break the stigma and remind them that it takes true courage to confront and heal from trauma.