If you're living with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and looking for a job, the process can be challenging.
That's why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports your long-term mental wellbeing is our mission.
Jobs for people with PTSD
Find a job that works for you
If you're living with PTSD and looking for work, you aren't alone. There are around 11% of Australians who also experience PTSD at some point in their lifetime
Searching for fulfilling work while managing your mental health can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.
Finding meaningful work while living with PTSD is worthwhile as it can:
- Give you a sense of purpose and fulfilment
- Help you feel more engaged in everyday life
- Build your confidence
- Create a sense of belonging
- Keep you focused on the present moment
Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with PTSD.
Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.
Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with PTSD.
What to look for in a job when you have PTSD
People living with PTSD are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.
Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage your mental health.
While everyone’s experience living with PTSD is different, you may like to consider the following job features:
What work environment do you feel most comfortable in?
Consider what types of environments you feel most comfortable in, then think about the types of jobs that you can do in that environment.
For example, you might find that being inside in a crowded room triggers your PTSD, so an outdoor job might suit you best.
Do you need flexibility in your work schedule?
If you’re living with PTSD, you may find that working part time rather than full time, or doing a job that has a flexible schedule might suit you best.
You may find the control and freedom you experience when you work flexible hours or from home to be helpful.
What pace do you work best at?
You may find that fast-paced, high-stress jobs can trigger your PTSD. This means it may be helpful for you to find work in low-stress environments with supportive co-workers.
On the other hand, you may find fast-paced jobs to be a welcome way to focus on the present moment.
Job ideas for people living with PTSD
Everyone will experience PTSD differently, so there’s no one-size-fits-all list of jobs that are best for you.
However, here are some job ideas to help you start brainstorming what roles could work best.
When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.
It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.
If you would like more support, speaking to an employment consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.
Indoor jobs
- Graphic designer
- Librarian
- IT technician
- Admin assistant
- Content writer
- Veterinarian
Outdoors jobs
- Farm hand
- Fruit picker
- Dog walker
- Landscaper
- Gardener
- Outdoor maintenance
- Construction
- Park ranger
- Eco tour guide
- Horticulturist
Jobs with flexibility in hours and/or location
- Graphic designer
- Freelance writer
- Video editor
- Makeup artist
- Personal trainer
- Dog walker
- Photographer
- Social media manager
- Software developer
- Copywriting editor
Slow-paced jobs
- Librarian
- Museum curator
- Pet sitter
- Freelance writer or editor
- Yoga instructor
- Bookstore retail assistant
- Florist
- Cleaner
Fast-paced jobs
- Chef
- Waiter
- Event planner
- Fitness instructor
- Retail assistant
- Barista
- Sales representative
*Please note - these job suggestions may not be suitable for everyone with PTSD. These suggestions may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with PTSD.
What employment support can I access?
If you're living with disability, injury, or a health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.
If you are eligible for Disability Employment Services, (many people with PTSD are eligible for support), APM can provide support to assist you to find work.
Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.
You may be eligible for help with:
- Career advice
- Finding suitable job opportunities
- Meeting local employers
- Writing resumes and job applications
- Preparing for job interviews
- Accessing training
- Accessing mental health support
- Ongoing workplace support
- Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
- Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
- Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you
Disability Employment Services
See if you're eligible for DES support
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My DES story
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About this article
APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.
If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au