As June is upon us, summer changes manifest in all of our lives. An end of a school year for kids and the beginning of a relieving break, perhaps a stressful jumbling of schedules, or the start of the “busy season” or the “slow season”: such a transitional time for everyone can also bring about a time of reflection.
For some, these reflections may be small, though not insignificant. For others, looking back at this time may involve feelings and traumas that are more difficult to tackle. The National Center for PTSD estimates that 60% of men and 50% of women will experience at least one incidence of trauma in their lives, any of which can cause long-term PTSD. Considering that statistic, it’s likely that someone in your workplace is experiencing PTSD of some kind.
What can PTSD look like, you ask? PTSD results from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD can cause lasting, disruptive impacts on someone’s life, including nightmares, heightened anxiety, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and avoiding daily situations that remind someone of the incident.
That’s where employers come in: it’s essential to understand how PTSD can impact employees of all levels and to meet it with knowledge and compassion. No one should suffer alone, and everyone deserves to live their happiest, healthiest life. Let’s make this summer, and every day, an understanding one. Visit https://healthy-hospitality.org/ for resources to help you and your team stay physically and mentally healthy throughout the year.
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