Monday, June 27 is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day.
PTSD Awareness Day also comes at the end of June, which is PTSD Awareness Month. PTSD is a disorder that can affect many people who have experienced traumatic incidents, often including military service members and veterans.
According to a report by the Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11-20% of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans, 12% of Gulf War veterans, and 15% of Vietnam veterans have PTSD.
The Department of Defense posted a video for PTSD Awareness Day, saying, “We recognize the effects post-traumatic stress & promote resources to assist in overcoming. Asking for help is a strength!”
In the video, Air Force Chaplain Amelia Barton speaks about the sacrifices service members make, not just the sacrifice of their life, but the sacrifice of their mental health.
The U.S. Marine Corps posted, “There are currently 8 million people in the United States living with PTSD. People can develop PTSD at any age, often after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event. It is always important for Marines to seek the support and help they need.”
“Although it can be hard to take a first step towards getting help, Marines are never alone and effective treatment is available to you and your loved ones,” the Corps added, along with resources for getting mental health treatment and learning more about PTSD.
The U.S. Air Force posted, “Post-traumatic stress disorder may develop for those who remain highly distressed by thoughts and memories of the traumatic event after it’s experienced. Effective treatment is available for DAF personnel, CONUS & OCONUS.”
The U.S. Space Force posted, “Today is #PTSDAwarenessDay. Many people across the globe silently suffer from invisible wounds. Use today to raise awareness, and eliminate the stigma of seeking help. You are not alone.”
The U.S. Army retweeted a message from Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, who said, “Today is #PTSDAwarenessDay. Soldiers in our @USArmy and civilians across our nation suffer from PTSD as a result of combat stress or a severe life trauma. Our goal is to connect our Soldiers with the necessary resources for their wellbeing.”
