Great job ideas for people living with PTSD

What are the best jobs for people with PTSD? APM guides you through working with PTSD, how to get support and great job ideas to get you started.

For people living with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), finding a job and coping at work can be difficult.

Managing the sometimes debilitating symptoms of PTSD and associated conditions such as flashbacks, anxiety and depression can make it hard to keep up with the demands of the workplace.

With the right support and a safe workplace, many people living with PTSD find meaningful work where they can grow and thrive.

At APM, we've seen first-hand the benefits that having the right job can bring. Not only can working help you be more financially secure, it can also bring a sense of purpose, connection and structure to your life.

How can I work with PTSD?

If you are living with PTSD and want to find work, support is available to help you achieve your goals.

The following things may help:

1. Mental health support

For people with PTSD, looking after your mental health is top priority. You can find mental health support from a range of places such as psychologists, psychiatrists, your GP and peer support groups.

These professionals and outlets can help you find and develop your coping mechanisms and self-care for difficult days, or dealing with your triggers.

Psychological support for managing PTSD and any associated conditions such as anxiety and depression can help you function well in daily life and help prepare you for returning to work.

2. Job seeker support

If you are living with post traumatic stress disorder and looking for work, you could be eligible for support from a Disability Employment Services such as the one delivered by APM.

Disability Employment Services is a government funded program which helps find jobs for people with disabilities and provides ongoing workplace support so you can thrive in your new role.

At APM, we can help you with things such as: career advice, finding suitable job opportunities, writing your resume, preparing for interviews and accessing workplace modifications in your new role.

3. Part time work/flexible schedule

If working full time hours is too much for you at the moment, part time work may be a good option. Some employers may also offer you a flexible schedule such as a late start, early finish or days off for appointments.

Read about how APM helped Scott start his own tow truck business and get the flexibility he needed to work with his PTSD.

4. Working from home

There are more and more job types that can be done from home. Working from home some or all of the time may help you have more control over your schedule, workload and work environment.

5. Workplace modifications

Workplace modifications are changes to your workplace, work schedule or work tasks that help you do your job well. Workplace modifications are highly individual.

Some examples include: flexible schedule, noise cancelling headphones and repositioning your workstation to feel more safe.

For more in depth information, check out APM's article on PTSD and holding down a job.

Best jobs for people with PTSD

Everyone experiences PTSD differently and so there is no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for people with PTSD.

When looking for work, you should consider your unique skills, needs and capabilities. Speaking to an Employment Consultant can help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before.

When looking for a job, you might want to consider:

Level of stress
Amount of social interaction
Workplace environment and stimuli including light, noise, busyness etc.
Amount of flexibility

Below are 5 job ideas for people with PTSD to help you start brainstorming. For more tailored job advice, get in touch with APM today.

Great job ideas for people with PTSD

1. Working with animals

Animals, such as dogs and horses, are often used in therapy for people with PTSD. They may help you feel calmer, lift your mood or reduce your stress levels. If you like being around animals, you may enjoy working with them.

Many low stress jobs that involve working with animals can be done part time or with a flexible schedule, for example a pet sitter, dog walker or pet groomer. Higher skilled jobs, such as a veterinary assistant or farm hand, may require some formal training.

2. Maintenance and repair jobs

Maintenance and repair jobs might be a good fit if you like working with your hands and enjoy being on the move instead of sitting still for longer periods. Many maintenance jobs involve outdoor work and physical activity which may help with managing depression.

Maintenance jobs can be found in many different environments such as schools, parks, government buildings and aged care facilities. Some maintenance and repair workers own their own business, giving them more control over their schedule and workload.

3. Writer/editor

If you have good writing skills, you might enjoy working as a writer or editor. There are many different types of writing and editing jobs such as copywriting, transcribing, proofreading, translating and grant writing.

Many of these jobs are flexible and can be done at home or as a freelancer. Doing remote work means you can have greater control over your schedule and work environment. Some writing jobs may be done with little experience, while others may require further training to be employable.

4. Working outdoors

There are many kinds of outdoor jobs such as gardening, landscaping, farming and park service.

Working in an outdoor environment with natural light and fresh air may help with managing depression and anxiety symptoms. Many outdoor roles have less social interaction and in some cases, you may be able to set your own schedule.

5. Hospitality jobs

There is a wide range of job roles in hospitality that could be a good fit for someone with PTSD. Although many restaurant and accommodation environments are fast paced, there are also many which are slow paced and low stress.

If you enjoy working with food, you may find being a chef, kitchen hand or baker to be rewarding. If you prefer a customer service role, you could consider working in a hotel as a valet parker, security guard or room attendant.

Check out how APM helped Mitchell find a job he loves working in a Perth hotel. His varied work as a bell boy / valet parker / night auditor have been an ideal fit for his circumstances.

Find job opportunities that are right for you with APM

At APM, we believe you have the right to experience the benefits of working in a safe and meaningful job. If you are ready to get to work, our Employment Consultants are here for you.