Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) is a growing problem and greater understanding is needed to erase stigma in order to help people navigate the condition.
Saturday, June 27 is Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) Awareness Day and OPSEU/SEFPO’s Disability Rights Caucus is calling on all members to recognize and highlight this important day.
PTSI, often referred to as PTSD, is a natural response to a traumatic event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope.
We prefer the term Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) rather than Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as it more accurately reflects the reality of an injury resulting from trauma rather than a disorder. Many individuals, organizations, and advocates have adopted this language to help reduce stigma and promote understanding.
According to recent statistics, mental health conditions are now among the leading causes of disability in Canada. We know that many members are navigating mental health challenges, including the effects of trauma and post-traumatic stress.
We know that PTSI can result from workplace injuries and workplace trauma. We also recognize that PTSI and other mental health disabilities are often invisible or non-apparent. Because these injuries cannot always be seen, workers may face additional barriers when seeking understanding, accommodations, and support.
Stigma remains a significant obstacle. Many workers fear that disclosing a mental health disability may affect their reputation, workplace relationships, career opportunities, or job security. This fear can prevent people from seeking the help and accommodations they need.
On PTSI Awareness Day, we encourage all members to learn more about post-traumatic stress injuries, challenge stigma, and support colleagues who may be living with the effects of trauma. Creating safer, more supportive workplaces begins with awareness, understanding, and compassion.
Resources:
Suicide Crisis Helpline: https://988.ca
Mental Health Research Canada – Workplace Trauma: https://www.mhrc.ca/workplacetrauma
Canadian Centres for Occupational Health and Safety – Resources: https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/diseases/ptsd.html
Canadian Mental Health Association – Resources: https://cmha.ca/brochure/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/
Boots on the Ground – Peer Support for First Responders: www.bootsontheground.ca
Hope for Wellness Helpline – Support for Indigenous peoples: https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/
Black Mental Health Canada: https://www.blackmentalhealth.ca/
In solidarity,
OPSEU/SEFPO Disability Rights Caucus