June 27th is National PTSD Awareness Day, as selected by the United States Senate. The National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has designated the month of June as PTSD Awareness Month. It is now believed we have reached the point in time when more Americans than ever before are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. When combining the recent military conflicts along with the COVID-19 pandemic, the fact that so many Americans are suffering from PTSD is not surprising
What Is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
It was once a condition that was attributed only to returning combat veterans, but more often the condition is diagnosed in those who have experienced violent crime or lived through catastrophic events. According to PTSD United, 20% of adults in the United States who have experienced a traumatic event suffer from PTSD. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has a deep effect on the lives of those who suffer from it. The statistics alone are astounding, but it can only tell a portion of the story. The trauma and anxiety associated with PTSD is a constant burden, inseparable from the sufferer.
When Did This Awareness Month/Day Begin?
The United States Senate established PTSD Awareness Day in 2010 following then-Sen. Kent Conrad’s efforts to designate a day of awareness as a tribute to Army Staff Sgt. Joe Biel of the North Dakota National Guard. Biel suffered from PTSD and took his life in April 2007 after returning to North Dakota following his second tour of duty in the Iraq War. Biel’s birthday, June 27th, was chosen to mark PTSD Awareness Day and honor his memory.
About the Observance and What You Can Do
• Reach out to someone you know who struggles with PTSD. Let them know you care and are there to help. Learn more about PTSD at NIMH or VA.gov. Use #NationalPTSDAwarenessDay to share on social media.
• This observance not only strives to bring awareness to the public but to also educate and eliminate the stigma associated with PTSD. Many of those with PTSD don’t seek treatment. Sometimes they simply fear the labels attached to PTSD. However, with support and understanding, we may all better understand the signs and provide better care. What can you do if you or someone you care about needs help for PTSD? There are organizations and resources that can help both individuals and professionals discover ways to identify and manage PTSD symptoms.
Some Symptoms May Include:
• Trouble sleeping
• Reliving memories of the event
• Anxious or on edge
• Avoidance of things or people who remind you of the event
Over time, these signs may fade. However, if they don’t, seeking treatment is not only suggested but helpful to many who suffer from PTSD.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!