What is PTSI?

Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a distressing event. Unlike physical injuries, PTSI affects the mind and emotions, potentially leading to long-term consequences.

The term “injury” (rather than “disorder”) emphasizes that PTSI is a treatable condition stemming from trauma exposure, and investing in prevention, early intervention and treatment is key.

Although often linked to military personnel and first responders, any worker in any sector can be affected. High-pressure environments, exposure to accidents, injuries, or other traumas can all lead to PTSI.

PTSI is sometimes referred to as an Operational Stress Injury (OSI), or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PTSI can arise from a wide range of workplace experiences, including:

Witnessing accidents or fatalities on the job
Exposure to violence, abuse, or bullying
Repeated contact with distressing or life-threatening situations

Important: Symptoms may not appear immediately—they can emerge weeks, months, or even years after the incident.

PTSI alters brain regions responsible for emotional regulation and stress response, often resulting in:

Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
Heightened stress sensitivity
Emotional instability
Difficulty coping with everyday challenges

PTSI doesn’t only impact the individual—it affects the entire organization:

Safety risks due to impaired concentration
Reduced productivity and job satisfaction
Increased turnover, burnout, or long-term disability
Ignoring PTSI means risking the well-being of your people—and your workplace culture.

Recognize the Symptons

PTSI symptoms vary, but may include:

Emotional

Anxiety, depression
Mood swings, irritability

Cognitive

Difficulty concentrating
Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks

Physical

Fatigue
Headaches
Sleep disturbances

Behavioural

Social withdrawal
Substance misuse
Avoidance of certain places or tasks

What Can You Do?

If you or someone you know may be experiencing PTSI, consider these steps:

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Acknowledge the Issue

Recognize PTSI as a valid and serious condition.

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Seek Professional Help

Mental health professionals, counsellors, and therapists can provide guidance and effective treatment strategies.

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Build a Support Network

Share with trusted colleagues, friends, or family. Peer support groups can also be extremely beneficial.

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Practice Self-Care

Prioritize activities like exercise, mindfulness, sleep, and hobbies that promote well-being.

Break the Stigma

Despite growing awareness, stigma remains a major barrier to care. Many workers avoid discussing their struggles for fear of judgment or repercussions.

Let’s change that narrative by:

Treating PTSI as an injury, not a weakness
Creating a safe space for open conversations
Promoting mental wellness as part of workplace culture
Support your coworkers by taking Mental Health First Aid training

Moving Forward

PTSI is serious—but recovery is possible.

By educating ourselves, supporting one another, and fostering a work environment that values mental health, we can ensure that no worker faces trauma alone.

Need Help?

CLAC is here to support you:

Don’t be afraid to reach out to your CLAC steward or representative
If you are a member of a CLAC Benefits Plan, you have access to our Employee and Family Assistance Program.
Access CLAC’s Mental Health, Substance Use, and Wellness Supports

PTSI Awareness in
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