Just coming off the cusp of the Memorial Day holiday, celebrating the sacrifices and bravery of our armed forces remains fresh in most of our minds. What may be less talked about is the psychological trauma that many continue to harbor within upon returning home from service. This trauma can lead to post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Congress has set aside the month of June as PTSD Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to the condition and what can be done to help those living in its wing.
Typically, PTSD develops as a response to extreme trauma. Not everyone who experiences trauma will go on to develop PTSD, but those who do usually have stress reactions that intensify over time. Unchecked, symptoms can impair normal, everyday functioning. While mental health authorities are still unclear why certain people develop PTSD while others do not, there are individuals who seem to be more susceptible than others. It should be noted that PTSD does not always originate from wartime trauma. Any highly stressful event such as being the victim of a violent crime, living through a natural disaster, or even going through the pangs of childbirth can trigger the stress response.
An article published by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs offers some tips regarding what each of us can do to increase awareness and support those with PTSD who either aren’t aware of the condition, or who feel the need to remain silent because of stigma. As part of the “Take a Step” campaign, we are all invited to:
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Challenge our opinions and understanding of PTSD
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Expand our knowledge of the condition
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Research treatment options
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Take a stand and help someone in need
Reaching out for help with PTSD requires a lot of courage and support. Through awareness and understanding, we can break down barriers that impede those from getting the care they need. The Family Guidance Center would like everyone to know that there are effective treatment programs for PTSD which can improve symptoms considerably, but the first step is to seek assistance. To learn more about PTSD or treatment plans, contact the Family Guidance Center.
