PTSD, as defined by the National Institute of Health, is an anxiety disorder that can be experienced after seeing or living through a dangerous or traumatic event. It is important to your health to recognize symptoms of PTSD and know resources for seeking help (see below).   

Veterans and PTSD

Military personnel because of the nature of their work and exposure to war, disaster, and trauma are especially vulnerable to PTSD - see U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD for more information. 

Listen to Veterans talk about living with PTSD and how treatment turned their lives around. 

The Veterans Association (VA) is raising awareness of PTSD during the month of June by providing resources to individuals, families, and communities designed to help those who may be at risk.  For more information see: www.ptsd.va.gov 

CRNAs and PTSD

PTSD can occur in both personal and professional situations for a variety of events. Nurse anesthetists and student nurse anesthetists, like other health care professionals, face workplace situations that can trigger PTSD; military nurse anesthetists in service to our country can have an increased likelihood. Other CRNA workplace events that have the potential to cause trauma: 

• Adverse medical events
• Post-Mission Depression
• Compassion Fatigue
• Litigation Stress Syndrome

See also Wellness in the Workplace or Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Links to online information:

• The National Institute of Mental Health: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• MayoClinic.com: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• WebMD.com: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• MedicineNet.com: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder