Unmasking PTSD: How Occupational Therapy Supports Healing
Living with a mental health or substance use challenge is hard, and trying to hide it is even harder.
Mental Health Week 2025 invites us all to “Unmask Mental Health.” It’s a call to peel back the masks we hide behind—especially when it comes to conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, and its impact is personal and often invisible. From disrupted sleep to difficulty maintaining relationships or routines, the effects of PTSD can ripple through every aspect of daily life. Occupational Therapists (OTs) are trained to help individuals navigate these challenges, supporting them on their journey to recovery and renewed independence.
Understanding PTSD and the Mask We Wear
PTSD doesn’t always look how we expect it to. It can present in many ways, including:
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Heightened anxiety or hypervigilance
- Avoidance of certain people, places, or activities
- Emotional numbness or difficulty concentrating
Because these symptoms can be difficult to explain—or even recognize—many people “mask” their struggles to maintain a sense of normalcy. Stigma, shame, or fear of being misunderstood can lead to avoidance behaviors and self-stigma, making healing even more challenging.
Unmasking these hidden struggles is a powerful first step toward healing. By acknowledging our mental health challenges, we can access the support we need to recover.
How Occupational Therapy Helps with PTSD
1. Creating a Safe Space for Unmasking
Occupational Therapists provide a compassionate, judgment-free environment where clients can begin to unpack their experiences. OTs help individuals build self-awareness and learn emotional regulation techniques that reduce overwhelm and increase a sense of control.
2. Helping with Daily Routines and Independence
PTSD can make even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming. OTs support clients in:
- Identifying and managing triggers during everyday activities
- Returning to previously avoided daily activities
- Rebuilding routines that conserve energy and reduce stress
- Using pacing and prioritization techniques to avoid burnout
- Implementing gradual exposure strategies in safe, real-world settings to rebuild confidence
3. Mind-Body Connection: Regaining Control
Healing from trauma involves more than just talking. Occupational Therapists use sensory-based interventions, such as grounding exercises, to help clients stay present. Mindfulness strategies and breathing techniques can reduce anxiety and reconnect clients with their bodies in a safe, empowering way.
4. Supporting Work & Social Life
Whether returning to work, school, or social activities, PTSD can create barriers that feel insurmountable. OTs provide:
- Tailored strategies for reintegrating into the workplace
- Techniques to reduce social isolation
- Support in accessing community resources to build a strong, supportive network
Breaking the Stigma: How You Can Help
Unmasking mental health is a collective effort. You can support this movement by:
- Starting open conversations about PTSD and mental wellness
- Encouraging loved ones to seek professional help when needed
- Offering support without judgment—sometimes just listening can make a big difference
This Mental Health Week let’s challenge ourselves to unmask PTSD and other hidden mental health conditions. With the right support, healing is possible. Occupational Therapists are here to walk alongside individuals as they rebuild their lives, routines, and sense of self.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait. Reach out for help today.
Resources
- Crisis Support: Talk Suicide Canada (1-833-456-4566)
Contact Us
Looking for support from an Occupational Therapist? Our team is here to help.
Email: referrals@ot-works.com
Phone: 604.696.1066 ext. 1000.