Your rights at work
PTSD can count as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a substantial, long-term effect on your daily life. If it does, your employer must consider reasonable adjustments, such as:
- changes to duties that expose you to triggers
- a quieter or more private workspace, or a seat facing the door
- flexible hours and time off for therapy
- a phased return after time off
- an agreed plan for what to do if you feel overwhelmed at work
Access to Work offers a free Mental Health Support Service.
Benefits
PIP is based on how PTSD affects you on most days. PTSD can affect:
- mixing with other people: feeling overwhelming distress, or needing someone with you
- planning and following journeys: not being able to go out, or only with someone you trust
- preparing food, washing and dressing: if you need prompting because of low mood, poor sleep or dissociation
- managing money and managing treatment: if you need reminders or support
PIP points self-check
Go through the 12 PIP activities one at a time and see roughly how many points may apply to you.
About 10 minutes. Your answers never leave your device.
Help for veterans
If your PTSD is linked to service in the armed forces, you may be able to claim through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or a War Pension. The charity Combat Stress and the Royal British Legion can help with claims.
If you cannot work because of your mental health, you may be able to get Universal Credit or New Style Employment and Support Allowance.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- GOV.UK, Access to Work
- GOV.UK, Personal Independence Payment
- GOV.UK, Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and War Pensions
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