June 27 marks PTSD Awareness Day – a time to increase understanding and break the stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder.
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It affects people from all walks of life – not just veterans or emergency responders. Survivors of abuse, accidents, natural disasters, and violence may also live with the lasting impact of trauma.
Symptoms of PTSD vary but often include distressing flashbacks, nightmares, intense anxiety, irritability, emotional numbness, and a constant feeling of danger. Many people with PTSD also struggle with depression, sleep issues, or avoiding situations that remind them of the trauma.
While PTSD can be incredibly isolating, it’s important to remember that recovery is possible. With professional support, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing), medication, or peer support, people can learn to manage symptoms and regain control of their lives.
On PTSD Awareness Day, we invite everyone to learn more, listen with compassion, and encourage open conversations about mental health. By raising awareness, we can create a more supportive, understanding world where no one has to suffer in silence.
