June is PTSD Awareness Month! This month is a national campaign that is dedicated to raising awareness and knowledge about PTSD to everyone. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health disorder that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event such as combat, car accidents, or sexual assaults. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are currently over 8 million people in the United States who have PTSD. Although there are many effective PTSD treatments, there are many people who do not get the help that they need. It is important to advocate for those who are unaware of resources available or are too scared to seek help. Let’s discuss ways to help others get the support they deserve.

Get help in a crisis.

• Call 911 or go the nearest emergency room.
• There are numerous of emergency resources available to the public such as National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, press 1).

Find a therapist.

• Contact your primary care provider to ask for recommendations or ask family and friends if they can recommend a therapist.
• Make sure the provider is equipped in treating clients who have experienced trauma.
• If you have health insurance, contact your insurance company to find out which mental health providers will be covered.
• If you do not have insurance, search for therapists on a sliding scale or who have free or reduced counseling offered by student interns (like we offer here at Simply Thrive). Check out our “Reduced Fee” page to learn more!

Help for Veterans:

• PTSD Treatment Programs: The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Offices offer PTSD treatment programs all over the country.
• Care for Women Veterans: Many VA Medical Centers offer mental health programs specifically for women veterans.
• Vet Centers: These community-based centers offer mental health services to help those transition from military to civilian life after military trauma.
• VA Claims and Benefits: Although the claims process can be complex, do not allow it to stop you from applying for the benefits you deserve. There are nonprofit and state agencies that can help.
  

Follow the hashtag #PTSDAwarenessMonth to join to the conversation on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.