Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental disorder. Through National PTSD Awareness Day, advocates work to raise awareness about this issue. While many people think that primarily veterans experience PTSD, there are actually countless victims of trauma, violence, and crime who also suffer from the disorder.
What Is National PTSD Awareness Day?
National PTSD Awareness Day began in 2010. At the time, Senator Kent Conrad pushed the government to create a day of awareness for PTSD. Senator Conrad wanted this awareness day after hearing about the experience of Staff Sergeant Joe Biel.
In 2007, Biel committed suicide. Before he took his life, he served two tours in Iraq as a part of the North Dakota National Guard. When he returned home, his doctor diagnosed him with PTSD. Now, National PTSD Awareness Day happens on his birthday every year.
National PTSD Awareness Day 2019
This annual event focuses on raising awareness about those who will experience PTSD during their lifetime. Women have a 10.4 percent chance of experiencing this disorder at some point. Meanwhile, men have a 5 percent chance of suffering from PTSD. Victims of sexual trauma and military veterans are two of the groups who are most likely to experience this disorder.
National PTSD Awareness Day 2019 will be on June 27, 2019. During this awareness event, organizations and advocates work with people who are at risk for PTSD. They help to inform the public about the symptoms of the disorder and treatment options. Because so many veterans experience PTSD, the United States Department of Defense is often involved in activities and other programs for National PTSD Awareness Day.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD may happen after someone sees or experience a traumatic event. While this event could be a battle or combat-related, it can also be something like a crime or domestic violence. Unfortunately, this condition remains misunderstood. Long ago, people called it to combat shock or shell shock. Even when psychologists realized that PTSD was a mental disorder, it was still difficult for people to get the help they needed. Starting in 1980, PTSD was finally recognized as a specific mental disorder.
Someone may have PTSD if they have flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event. They may suffer from suicidal thoughts, depression, or irritability. Sometimes, people even engage in self-destructive acts or episodes of self-harm.
Recovering From PTSD
Sometimes, people who have PTSD or mental health disorders use substance abuse to cope with their symptoms. When they decide to get treatment, they will need care for both disorders. From trauma-informed care to dual diagnosis treatment, there are many options available. At the clinic, clients can find programs such as:
Within a highly clinical setting, individuals can begin healing from mental and substance abuse disorders. If you or a loved one need help with recovery, the Willows at Red Oak Recovery can help. To learn more about The Willows at Red Oak Recovery, call us now at 855.773.0614.
