Putting a face on PTSD

The National Center for PTSD has named June Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, and over the next few weeks, we’ll all be learning, connecting and sharing about it to better help everyone living with the neurological condition.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 7.7 million adults are living with PTSD in the U.S., and although it affects many military veterans, anyone can experience post-traumatic stress at any age.1 There is no known cure, but it’s usually treated through psychotherapy, medications or sometimes a combination of both.

So, who are some of the millions that are living with PTSD, and what are their stories? Here are just a few from AboutFace, a website produced by the National Center for PTSD that’s all about telling real stories of veterans living with the condition. Click on any of the images to hear what they have to say.

Mary C. “Katie” Weber
US Army (1993 – 1995)
PFC, Transportation Management Coordinator
Germany


When I knew I needed help-I was suffering in silence. I was allowing myself to become more and more depressed … so much so that my family became extremely concerned and suggested that I go to the VA.”

Bill Talbott
US Air Force (1967 – 1971)
Sgt, Morse Code Intercept Operator
Philippines, United States, Vietnam


How I knew I had PTSD– “I was constantly moving … always had bad dreams, hitting walls, putting holes in walls. I just couldn’t control myself.”

Tyler Jones
US Marine Corps (2002 – 2006)
CPL, Military Police
Iraq, United States


Why I didn’t ask for help right away– “I think there’s a stigma attached to it … for me, it’s feeling like I’m not a real marine.”

What can you do to help during PTSD Awareness Month?

And if you’ve been recently diagnosed with PTSD, you’re not alone. Join members like you today and connect with people who know what it’s like.

Share this post on twitter and help spread the word for National PTSD Awareness Month.


1 http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml#part6

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2 thoughts on “Putting a face on PTSD”

  1. Everyone with PTSD should be screened for genetic glitches in methylation and detoxification pathways, for heavy metals and toxins, for persistent Lyme, and for mold toxicity. They may be adding insult to the injury and trauma that triggers PTSD, by fueling inflammation in the body, brain and nervous system, impacting everything from health, cognitive and neurological function to moods and mental status. See my other comments for more information. There are organic as well as experiential bases for most mental health challenges, and it is essential to address this.

  2. I have PTSD . I was attacked by my patient and none of my coworkers helped. I have tried to get help. I am on disability and it is hard to get help. Sometimes it seems like it is not worth continuing like this. People just act like I am a child with a disability. I only go out of my apartment if my daughter comes over. I never open my blinds. I thought about writing the President for help. I am so tired of insurance saying I should find my own doc. If I knew how to do this maybe I would have help. I was a nurse . I do have TBI. I wish I had a friend to talk to maybe it wouldn’ t b so hard.

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