Sheleigh Highsmith, PMHNP-BC, Regional Clinical Director, Post-Acute Care Behavioral Health
At TeamHealth, we deliver exceptional care during life’s pivotal moments, and some of those moments leave lasting impacts that aren’t always visible. On PTSD Awareness Day, we’re helping break a common myth about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): that it only affects military veterans. While PTSD can affect those who have served, it can impact anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. By increasing understanding and awareness, we can help reduce stigma and ensure those affected receive the support, compassion, and care they deserve.
PTSD Can Affect Anyone
PTSD can affect any individual who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This includes survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, childhood abuse, natural disasters, and severe accidents. Many live with emotional scars long after the traumatic event has passed. Healthcare professionals, particularly those who have experienced workplace violence or repeated exposure to traumatic events, may carry the lasting effects of those encounters, increasing their risk of secondary trauma or prolonged stress. Additionally, first responders, caregivers, and residents of long-term care facilities who have faced significant loss, isolation, or disruptions in routine may also develop PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD can vary and include flashbacks, anxiety, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, and withdrawal. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life, relationships, and the ability to feel safe and connected. In many healthcare settings, these signs are often overlooked or misunderstood, especially in environments where mental health stigma hinders individuals from seeking help.
Mental Health is Foundational
On PTSD Awareness Day, and throughout PTSD Awareness Month, we reaffirm that mental health care is essential to overall well-being. PTSD is not an indication of weakness; it is a natural human response to overwhelming experiences. With understanding, support, and timely intervention, healing is achievable. At TeamHealth, we remain committed to our mission because exceptional care involves seeing the whole person—past, present, and future. For those living with PTSD, your story matters, your healing matters, and you are not alone. We are here to support you during life’s pivotal moments, and beyond.
Empathy in Action
At TeamHealth, our Behavioral Health service line exists to meet those moments with presence, expertise, and empathy. We provide integrated mental health support across care settings—from hospitals to skilled nursing facilities—partnering with staff to support patients, residents, and caregivers alike. Our clinicians meet people where they are, helping them navigate the complex emotional impact of trauma with dignity and trust. Because PTSD can affect anyone, recognizing the signs, reducing stigma, and ensuring access to compassionate care are critical steps toward healing.
