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?

• LEARN by reading the basic facts about PTSD and checking out the National Center for PTSD’s AboutFace website.
• CONNECT by sharing promotional materials about PTSD and learning where to get help if you’re experiencing symptoms.
• SHARE on Facebook and Twitter through #PTSD and #PTSDAwarenessMonth.

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.