What is unprocessed trauma?
PSP are frequently exposed to trauma and may need time to process events that occur during a shift. When PSP transition from work to family life without adequate exit and recovery time to process their experience, they may carry unprocessed trauma. These are the “sticky bits”; an image or a series of events that occurred on-the-job that the PSP cannot stop thinking about. This unprocessed trauma can make it difficult to relax and engage in family activities. The PSP is sometimes unable to leave work behind and may be emotionally distant or irritable. This can impact couple and family relationships. PSP can be physically present but grappling with events from work which interfere with their ability to fully participate in family life.
Signs that PSP might have unprocessed trauma
- Disengagement
- Irritability
- Anger or aggression
- Hypervigilance
- Substance use (alcohol, drugs)
- Nightmares
- Sleeping problems
The effects of unprocessed trauma on PSP families
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References for this page (click to expand)
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