Personally I believe PTSD and LEO do not mix. Teaching on the other hand could be a possibility. I am a teacher with 26 years in, prior to teaching I was a research scientist. I loved both careers.

The reason I went into teaching was to work with people and share my passion for science. Being isolated in a research facility gave little exposure to people other than the research team.

What is common about both jobs is the constantly changing dynamics and unpredictability of how the day will unfold.

Before jumping into either field I would ask yourself some basic questions.

What about LEO attracts me to this position?

What of these answers are in common with Teaching?

What about Teaching attracts me to this job?

If I taught what subject would I teach or grade level?

In past jobs that you have enjoyed what common elements were present?

What occupations would have these elements in them?



When I left the research field and had just turned down a huge position in charge of my own research team I was blown away. (Reasons pertained to the corporate structure of running a research program but if I was going to advance in my field that is what would be my future.) I thought now what am I going to do? --- I became a teacher. But before I did pursue the credentials I had to stop and ask these questions of myself. It was a real crossroads in my life and a time of reflection.