PTSD Training for Professionals: Supporting Military & Law Enforcement

Awareness of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), has increased since it was first diagnosed in 1980 by the American Psychiatric Association. Common in the military, PTSD training for professionals benefits both individuals and families.

Recipients

• A wide variety of professionals can benefit from PTSD training. In addition to medical personnel and military professionals, the education of law enforcement officers trains them to deescalate hostage and other tense situations. All U.S. military personnel must attend PTSD training. Mental health workers and spiritual advisers also benefit from PTSD training.

Content

• Training equips professionals to recognize PTSD in others. Combat and trauma can impact people differently, which explains why two people who faced the same circumstances may not both suffer from PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD may include irritability or memory problems, sleep issues or difficulty concentrating.

Misconceptions

• Professionals need to be aware that military personnel do not have to be in combat to suffer from PTSD, although that is typically the case. Training can not adequately prepare military personnel for all that happens in war, so even the most prepared person may suffer from PTSD.