Covid and PTSD: Dispelling misconceptions on those who may have it and why

For many, the past year has been one like no other: From ill health to loss of livelihoods and social networks, the pandemic has affected every part of our lives – including our mental health.

A recent study by Kings College London found many hospital staff treating the sickest coronavirus patients during the first wave were left traumatised by the experience, with 39% reporting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

One of the most common misconceptions about PTSD is that it mainly affects military personnel, but this isn’t the case. Olivia, who endured a traumatic childbirth, and former Facebook moderator Chris were diagnosed with PTSD before the pandemic and have since sought treatment.

They shared their experience with the BBC.

Camera and editing: Aisha Doherty

Producer: Tiffany Wertheimer

If you’ve been affected by any of the issues in this story you can find help and support at BBC Action Line.

Full Facebook statement:

We are committed to working with our partners to provide support for our content reviewers as we recognise that reviewing certain types of content can sometimes be hard. We have built technical solutions to limit reviewers exposure to potentially graphic material as much as possible. Everyone who reviews content for Facebook goes through an in-depth training programme on our Community Standards and has access to psychological support to ensure their wellbeing which includes on-site support with trained practitioners, an on-call service, and company-paid private healthcare from the first day of employment. This is an important issue and we are committed to getting it right.

Source