PTSD Awareness Month is observed during the month of June. It serves as a time to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and promote effective treatments. By dedicating this month to PTSD awareness, the aim is to highlight the importance of early intervention, encourage those affected to seek help, and promote access to effective treatments.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition activated by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD may experience intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their traumatic experience long after the event has ended. These symptoms can manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Additionally, they might experience emotional numbness, increased irritability, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and can develop immediately after the event or years later.
According to the National Mass Violence Center (NMVC) PTSD estimates for communities that have experienced mass violence, PTSD prevalence was 4-5 times higher than the national prevalence. Those who were surveyed and reported having low social support had higher risk of PTSD and depression than those reporting high social support.
Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD is crucial for seeking timely help. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent and distressing memories of a traumatic event, it’s important to monitor these signs. Symptoms like recurring flashbacks, nightmares, severe emotional distress when reminded of the trauma, and physical reactions such as heart palpitations or sweating should not be ignored. Moreover, significant changes in behavior, such as avoiding places or people that remind them of the trauma, feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, difficulty maintaining close relationships, or self-destructive behavior (e.g., excessive drinking or reckless driving) can indicate the need for professional assistance.
Reaching out for help is a vital step in managing PTSD. It’s recommended to seek help if the symptoms are interfering with daily life, such as work, school, or personal relationships. Mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, can offer effective treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and medication to help manage symptoms. Support groups and peer support can also be beneficial in providing a sense of community and understanding. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so if you or a loved one are struggling with the effects of trauma due to the 2021 Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy, do not hesitate to reach out to a service navigator for support and guidance.
By dedicating June to PTSD awareness, we can foster a supportive environment for those affected, promoting healing and resilience through education, resources, and community support.