PTSD Awareness Month
June is PTSD Awareness Month. As a veteran-centric platform, we feel it is our responsibility to help spread awareness. A heavy amount of veterans regularly struggle with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. This disability affects all veterans differently, and civilians often misunderstand its effects. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, “11-20 out of every 100 Veterans that served in OIF or OEF have PTSD in a given year. About 12 out of every 100 Gulf War Veterans (or 12%) have PTSD. An estimated 30 out of every 100 (or 30%) of Vietnam Veterans have had PTSD in their lifetime.”
Understanding PTSD
PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have witnessed or lived through traumatic events. Although PTSD can occur in all individuals, it is especially prevalent for combat veterans. PTSD looks different for everyone. Common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive, disturbing thoughts and flashbacks to the time their original trauma occurred. Many elements, such as smells, sounds, or sights, can trigger these invasive thoughts. The ever-present possibility of reliving the trauma causes PTSD hosts regular anxiety and stress.
How to spread PTSD awareness and support those who are suffering
There are a few ways you can bring awareness to PTSD and support those currently suffering.
Share infographics
One way to raise awareness is to share valuable infographics or information on your social media channels. Making citizens more aware of the struggles veterans face isn’t meant to bring sympathy but rather understanding. You could also share infographics that share resources for those who have PTSD to call or reach out to when they are having a hard time coping with their condition.
Encourage others to reach out
During June and specifically closer to the holidays, encourage those suffering to reach out for help. Many veterans have tough shells, and they find it difficult to ask for help. Assuring them that asking for help is not a weakness could prompt them to seek assistance.
Donate to organizations that help veterans
There are many resources available to veterans who have PTSD, but they work off of donations. Your donations contribute to their marketing which allows veterans to find them easily. Importantly, if a veteran is struggling, they shouldn’t have to dig through the internet to find valuable resources.
Lastly, if you are a veteran with PTSD and you need guidance, please call the Veteran Crisis Helpline. Call 1-800-273-8255 and PRESS 1.
For more information on PTSD, check our other veteran resources.
