June Shines a Light on PTSD: Know It, Understand It, Heal
- Lisa Dewberry
- Jun 17
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Every June, the United States observes Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of PTSD, encouraging support for those affected, and highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment. PTSD is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition that can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 70% of people globally will experience a potentially traumatic event in their lifetime. While most will recover naturally, around 3.9% of the world’s population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. For those individuals, the emotional and psychological effects of trauma can be long-lasting and deeply distressing.
What Is PTSD?
As defined by the American Institute of Stress, PTSD is a real and serious disorder that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening, violent or traumatic event, such as war, natural disasters, serious accidents, sexual or physical assault.
“PTSD makes you feel stressed and afraid after the danger is over,” the Institute explains. “It affects your life and the people around you.” Importantly, PTSD doesn’t always emerge immediately. “Signs may start soon after a frightening event and then continue. Others may develop new or more severe signs months or even years later.”
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that PTSD symptoms must last more than a month and interfere with a person’s daily functioning to meet clinical diagnosis criteria.
Symptoms and Signs
PTSD symptoms can vary widely from person to person. According to the American Institute of Stress, common symptoms include:
• Flashbacks or intrusive memories
• Nightmares and difficulty sleeping
• Avoidance of trauma-related thoughts or situations
• Irritability, anger, or sudden outbursts
• Difficulty concentrating and memory lapses
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others• Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pain
People may also experience comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders, all of which require professional attention.
The WHO adds that people with PTSD may become hypervigilant, startling easily and constantly scanning their environment for danger, even when they are safe. “They may avoid reminders of the traumatic event, including people or places, and may feel as if the event is happening again through flashbacks or nightmares,” states the WHO.
Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop PTSD, certain factors increase vulnerability. The NIMH and WHO identify these as: • Exposure to multiple or repeated traumatic events • Close proximity to the trauma • Childhood trauma • Lack of social support after the event • Family history of mental illness • Women are statistically more likely to experience PTSD • Lower levels of education
However, there is also hope. Feeling supported by loved ones or community members can significantly reduce the risk of developing PTSD. According to the WHO, receiving social support following potentially traumatic events can reduce the risk for PTSD.
Getting Help: Diagnosis, Treatment and Support
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), PTSD is diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Symptoms must last more than a month and be severe enough to interfere with a person’s daily functioning, such as their ability to work, attend school, or maintain relationships, to meet the criteria for a clinical diagnosis.
Fortunately, PTSD is treatable. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that there are many effective treatments available. Evidence-based psychological interventions, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a trauma focus and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), are considered first-line treatments. These therapies help individuals process traumatic memories in a safe, supportive setting and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Support can also come from a person’s social circle. PTSD UK stresses the importance of open communication and emotional support from loved ones. If someone close to you may be struggling, let them know you're there to listen without judgment. According to PTSD UK, “The best thing to do is stay open with your communication… talk to a therapist or doctor when you're ready.”
It is never too late to seek help. PTSD and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) can be successfully treated even many years after the trauma occurred. There are also various practices and activities—such as mindfulness, creative expression, group therapy, and physical activity—that may help ease symptoms and support recovery.
The World Health Organization also highlights the role of self-care in managing PTSD. Maintaining daily routines, engaging in regular physical activity, building healthy sleep habits, and reducing alcohol or substance use can help improve well-being. Stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation may also be beneficial.
Self-Care and Support
Recovery from PTSD isn’t just about therapy, it’s also about daily choices. The World Health Organization recommends: • Maintaining daily routines • Talking to trusted people • Avoiding alcohol and drugs • Regular exercise • Practicing stress management techniques
PTSD UK emphasizes the power of open dialogue: “No matter how you feel, the best thing to do is stay open. Share how you are feeling with loved ones, friends, family, or a trained professional.”
Supporting someone with PTSD requires compassion, patience, and understanding. “Let them know you care and are there to listen when they are ready to talk,” advises PTSD UK.
How You Can Make a Difference
This PTSD Awareness Month, La Playa Media & Marketing encourages everyone to: ✅ Learn the signs and symptoms of PTSD ✅ Support loved ones by creating a safe space to talk ✅ Seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling ✅ Reduce stigma by speaking openly about mental health
Remember, help is available and recovery is possible. Whether it’s been weeks, months, or years since the traumatic event, it’s never too late to seek support.
If You’re Struggling, You’re Not Alone
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, please know that support is available, wherever you are in the world.
You can start by contacting a local medical professional, community mental health service, or a national crisis helpline. Here are a few international resources: • United States: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline • United Kingdom: Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free 24/7) • Canada: Reach out to Talk Suicide Canada at 1-833-456-4566 • Australia: Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 • International Support: Visit www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you
In case of an emergency, always dial your local emergency number (such as 911, 112, or 999).Remember: You are not alone, and help is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and there are people ready to support you.
If you're looking to raise awareness or partner on mental health outreach campaigns, contact La Playa Media & Marketing. Let’s work together to reduce stigma and increase support because mental health matters.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek help from qualified healthcare providers regarding any medical or mental health condition.
Sources
American Institute of Stress – PTSD Awareness Month
National Institute of Mental Health – PTSD
PTSD UK – What is PTSD?
World Health Organization – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
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