The Hidden Battles: Living as a Disabled Veteran in a ‘Normal’ Workplace
In a professional setting, we often wear many hats — leader, collaborator, innovator — but rarely do we disclose the invisible layers that impact our day-to-day lives. As a disabled Army veteran with service-connected PTSD, the challenge of appearing ‘normal’ becomes a mental gymnastics routine. This article aims to shed light on the struggle of living with an invisible disability while navigating the professional world and underscores the importance of supportive yet discreet workplace environments.
The Reality in Numbers: According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, about 11–20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom experience PTSD in a given year. This isn’t just a personal battle; it’s a national concern affecting the workforce and, by extension, our economy.
The Art of Acting “Normal”: Over the past few weeks, my mental health has taken a rollercoaster ride, thrusting me into moments of despair and heightened anxiety. While PTSD can manifest in myriad ways, for me, abrupt changes in personal life dynamics often act as a trigger. The constant struggle to seem ‘okay’ in a professional environment, when you are anything but, can be exhausting. The reality? Your life is a battlefield where the enemy isn’t always visible, but the wounds are very real.
The Value of Supportive Workplaces: Navigating a tumultuous mental landscape while maintaining professional composure is no easy feat. That’s why the support from my team at Benchmade has been a lifeline. I was open with my manager — within the bounds of professional appropriateness — about needing a sick day to manage my PTSD. The remarkable part? My colleagues didn’t know the real reason, yet their simple messages of “I hope you’re feeling better” were enough to make me feel seen and less isolated.
Anonymity Matters: While transparency is valuable, there’s a unique comfort in not having to lay bare your vulnerabilities. Sometimes, you don’t want to be the ‘broke, weird person’ in the office; you just want to be a team member contributing to a common goal. Anonymity serves as a shield, allowing you to battle your demons privately while engaging in public life without a label.
If you or a veteran you know is struggling with PTSD or related mental health issues, immediate help is available. The Veterans Crisis Line offers confidential support 24/7. Reach out by calling 1–800–273–8255 and Press 1, or text 838255. You’re not alone.
Life doesn’t stop throwing curveballs just because you’re in a work environment. For disabled veterans like me, the battle is ongoing, but so is the pursuit of normalcy. Supportive workplaces are not just a nice-to-have but a necessity for anyone fighting hidden battles. Employers and colleagues who offer emotional space, even unknowingly, contribute to a more inclusive, understanding workplace culture — a space where everyone can be ‘normal,’ even when they’re not.
If you’re grappling with similar challenges, know that it’s okay not to be okay. And when you find those moments of relief, hold onto them; they’re your beacon in a seemingly endless tunnel.
P.S. A massive shoutout to everyone who makes the workplace a sanctuary rather than another battleground.
