PTSD is a complex disorder caused by experiencing or witnessing trauma. The trauma necessary to cause PTSD can originate from many events such as an accident, combat, a natural disaster, or assault.
History of National PTSD Awareness Day
PTSD in some form or another has long been documented in humans.
PTSD came with the Civil War in the 1800s. The disorder became widespread and was known under a variety of names as “railway spine “ or “shell shock."
Research done by Psychologists on Holocaust victims and rape victims experiencing PTSD was also done on Vietnam Vets.
Fortunately, today PTSD is highly treatable. June 27, this day, is recognized by the Senate as National PTSD Awareness Day in honor of a National Guard Member who had committed suicide only after two tours of duty.
Facts about PTSD
PTSD is widespread While 3.5% of adult Americans struggling with PTSD may seem like a small percentage, that’s actually 8 million people.
It affects women more than men 10% of women and only 4% of men are likely to develop PTSD, which makes it over twice as likely for women to develop the illness.
PTSD is widespread in veterans Of those who served in the Vietnam War, an estimated 30% have had PTSD in their lifetimes. 12% of Gulf War Veterans have PTSD, and between 11-20% of veterans of the Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom have PTSD.
Children can get PTSD It appears that children can develop PTSD symptoms, albeit differently to adults. Research is very new and there is much more to be known about the subject.
PTSD in literature Some of our earliest PTSD knowledge comes from literature, including Shakespeare and Dickens. They wrote about traumatic experiences, and the symptoms they described aligned with what we now call PTSD.
How to observe PTSD Awareness Day
Educate yourself and Others on the Symptoms of PTSD Learn the symptoms and causes of PTSD.
Go on to the National Center for PTSD’s website and take the pledge to raise PTSD awareness.
Donate There are many organizations set up to provide aid to veterans with PTSD such as the Wounded Warrior Project and Military OneSource.
Spread the word Spread the word on the disease to others.
Written and Submitted by GSS Agent#3013
Works Cited: National Today
