The two features that differentiate the ASD diagnosis from PTSD are 1) the requirement for ASD that the individual experience either during the traumatic event or in its aftermath, at least three of five dissociative symptoms (Criterion B; numbing/detachment, reduced awareness of one’s surroundings, derealization.

How is dissociative identity disorder (DID) treated? The goals of treatment for DID are to relieve symptoms, ensure the safety of the individual and those around him or her, and “reconnect” the different personalities into one integrated, well-functioning identity.

Dissociation often occurs as a reaction to trauma, possibly as a way of helping a person distance themselves from the traumatic situation. 3 Assault, abuse, accidents, natural disasters, and military combat are all sources of trauma that can cause dissociation.

Medication. The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends certain antidepressants for the treatment of PTSD symptoms. The APA notes that the most common medications used for PTSD treatment are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as: paroxetine (Paxil)

Helping someone with PTSD tip 1: Provide social support

1. Don’t pressure your loved one into talking.
2. Do “normal” things with your loved one, things that have nothing to do with PTSD or the traumatic experience.
3. Let your loved one take the lead, rather than telling them what to do.
4. Manage your own stress.
5. Be patient.

Now, symptoms of PTSD can interfere with the individual’s ability to work in numerous ways. These include memory problems, lack of concentration, poor relationships with coworkers, trouble staying awake, fear, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional outbursts while at work, flashbacks, and absenteeism.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects the rights that employees have at work. These laws make it illegal for an employer to discriminate against an employee because of their PTSD or any other disability. This applies to both physical and mental disabilities.

Many people who haven’t been affected by PTSD, or who have not known anyone who has, do not necessarily understand the impact it can have. It’s therefore important that any conversation with an employer starts by being open and honest about your diagnosis and what it means for any working relationship.

Are employees with PTSD required to disclose their disability to their employers? No. Employees need only disclose their disability if/when they need an accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

Psychotic Disorders (including Paranoia and Schizophrenia) To qualify for disability with psychotic disorders, you must have medical documentation showing two years or more showing that your condition severely limits your ability to function in a work environment.

Yes, it is legal for your boss to request documentation from the hospital that you were in the hospital. But the employer can ask for proof that you were in the hospital, as well as confirmation of the days (i.e., how long) you were hospitalized or undergoing treatment.

The Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA) protects employees from discrimination based on a disability—including mental illnesses like depression or anxiety.

If you wake up and feel especially stressed, down, or anxious — at a level that impairs your functioning — it’s time to consider taking the day off. Of course, sometimes you just feel unexplainably “off.” It’s OK to take the day to yourself then, too. Use your personal judgement and listen to your mind and body.

Depression and Anxiety as Disabilities If your depression or anxiety makes it hard for you to sleep, work, concentrate, think, regulate your emotions, or care for yourself, for example, then it is a disability under the ADA.