Accommodating Employees with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Transitioning service members and veterans experiencing the effects of PTSD may face day-to-day difficulties—particularly in the workplace. However, employers can play a vital role in their recovery by recognizing the challenges associated with PTSD and making reasonable accommodations. Not all people with PTSD will need accommodations to perform their jobs, and many others may only need a few accommodations. The following is just a small sample of ideas to accommodate PTSD. For additional ideas, visit http://www.americasheroesatwork.gov.

Memory

• Provide written instructions.
• Use a daily or weekly task list.
• Allow additional training time.

Lack of concentration

• Reduce distractions in the work environment.
• Provide space enclosures or a private space.
• Plan for uninterrupted work time.

Time management

• Make daily "to do” lists and check items off as they are completed.
• Divide large assignments into smaller tasks and steps.
• Remind the employee of important deadlines via memos or e-mail.

Coping with stress

• Allow longer or more frequent work breaks.
• Provide additional time to learn new responsibilities.
• Restructure job to include only essential functions.

Interacting with coworkers

• Encourage the employee to walk away from frustrating situations and confrontations.
• Allow the employee to work from home part-time.
• Provide disability awareness training to coworkers and supervisors.

Headaches

• Provide alternative lighting.
• Take breaks from computer work or from reading print material.
• Practice stress-relieving techniques.

Source: Accommodating Employees with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Fact Sheet, Office of Disability Enforcement Policy, posted August 2008.

Reprinted with permission. © CCH

 Transitioning service members and veterans experiencing the effects of Post-Trumatic Stress Disorder may face day-to-day difficulties—particularly in the workplace.