June is PTSD Awareness Month.
In June, we aim to reduce the stigma associated with PTSD and ensure that those affected by it receive proper treatment and support.
June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). People living with PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, have experienced or witnessed a life-threatening or terrifying event. As a result, PTSD can cause flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. In June, we aim to reduce the stigma associated with PTSD and ensure that those affected by it receive proper treatment and support.
At VOA Ohio & Indiana, we welcome everyone with open arms and wrap around services to ensure they receive effective care. That’s because we believe in a world where all people live in safety, with social, emotional, and physical well-being, spiritual fulfillment, justice, and hope.
Many people who have experienced traumatic events have difficulty coping and adjusting, but can get better with support, good self-care, and time. If symptoms get worse and last for longer periods of time to the point where it impacts day-to-day life, it is referred to as PTSD.
U.S. Army Veteran Amani has experienced this first-hand.
“I was going through a troubling time. There was a lot going on. I was in a devastated state. I really needed a certain environment to heal. And for veterans, something I’ve realized is, we are very particular. In order for us to get ourselves to a good place, we need structure. And for me, VOA was that.”
With the right treatment and care, Amani is growing on her path to wellbeing.
“It [VOA] was an environment where I felt safe. I feel as though it’s that environment that propelled me to find my light.”
It’s important to get effective treatment after symptoms develop. Here are signs and symptoms of PTSD to look for:
- Being easily startled or frightened
- Aways being on guard for danger
- Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast
- Trouble sleeping
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
- Overwhelming guilt or shame
If you are a friend or family member to someone with PTSD, it’s important to offer your support and make sure they know they have a support system to lean on. You can connect them to professional resources who can help them address their mental health in a safe place.
Remember that one person’s trauma might not have the same impact on a different person. People deal with trauma in different ways. And when supporting your friends or family with PTSD, it’s important to know that each day is different. Some days are good, and it might appear that nothing is bothering your loved one. But, other days could be very difficult, and they will need more support on those days.
For more resources and symptom information about PTSD, visit https://www.ptsd.va.gov/