June is National PTSD Awareness Month – Find Resources to Help Manage It
PHOENIX (June 15, 2023) – Before the modern medical term ‘posttraumatic stress disorder’ (PTSD), undiagnosed psychological impacts or injuries from intense combat were often called “shell shock” or “combat fatigue.”
Today, extensive research has identified the disruptive psychological effects of intense stress and trauma due to violence and serious injury, and it is now medically diagnosed as PTSD. However, its psychological, emotional and mental health impacts are not limited to individuals who have experienced combat.
To bring attention and awareness of the impacts and effects of PTSD, June is National PTSD Awareness Month. The month-long observance highlights the importance of understanding, treating and coping with the effects of PSTD to help individuals – and their families – improve and prosper in daily life.
According to the National Center for PTSD, a program of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), about six in every 100 Americans, or 6% of the U.S. population, will experience PTSD in their lives. In addition, PTSD is also more likely to impact women, regardless of performing military service.
The Center for PTSD estimates there are about 12 million people in the U.S. living with PTSD. It can occur after a traumatic event such as combat, a physical assault, or a natural disaster.
To help recognize, understand and learn about PTSD, the following Healthy Homefront® articles provide information about managing it at work, in the home, and while in recreational settings.
If you, a family member, or friend experience PTSD, check out these resources: