June declared PTSD Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Justin Beckett
  • Mental Health Clinic
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder have declared June, "PTSD Awareness Month."

PTSD is often a misunderstood problem and its prevalence is frequently underestimated. PTSD Awareness Month was established to provide information on this disorder and to connect those who are impacted to helping agencies. Through increased awareness, the Hanscom AFB community will be better prepared to take care of those in need, as well as their loved ones.

PTSD affects nearly 7.7 million Americans. Approximately 20 percent of veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan suffer from PTSD and two-thirds do not seek treatment. Exposure to combat is a widely recognized origin of PTSD; however, it is not the only cause. It can develop after someone experiences a traumatic or life-threatening event including an assault or a disaster. After such traumas, it is normal to experience upsetting memories of the event, feelings of being on edge or difficulty sleeping. These symptoms can appear months to years after the traumatic event and require treatment when the reactions do not improve or resolve.

Symptoms of PTSD vary from person to person and can affect people differently. Some common symptoms include upsetting memories, anger, irritability, emotional numbness, nightmares and increased substance or alcohol use. Symptoms that appear well controlled can often worsen when new events or experiences occur. A strong indication of when someone should seek assistance is when their work or personal life is negatively affected.

People with PTSD often suffer alone, even though the impact of the injury is felt throughout their family and community. PTSD is a treatable condition and it is important to be aware of its prevalence, signs and symptoms.

The Hanscom Mental Health Clinic is participating in PTSD Awareness Month June 19 and 20. Those who are unable to participate in the events listed below are encouraged to complete an anonymous online mental health screening at www.militarymentalhealth.org.

There are several resources available to help anyone who believes they might be affected by PTSD.

For more information, visit www.militarymentalhealth.org/militaryptsd, contact the Mental Health Clinic at 781-225-6392 or come to one of the following events:

June 19: Post-CUI, Summer Buzz Expo at the base track from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

June 20: Massachusetts National Guard Joint Force Headquarters from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

June 20: Base Exchange from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.