PTSD -Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD is a mental disorder brought on by witnessing or being involved in a terrifying event or trauma. This disorder causes a person great difficulty overcoming. The symptoms can last months, years, and even a life time. Many triggers can bring back memories or thoughts of the trauma, bringing with it intense emotional and physical reactions.

National PTSD Awareness Month is observed annually in June and is dedicated to raising awareness about the condition and how one can obtain treatment. In 2010, the U.S. Senate had designated June 27th each year as PTSD Awareness Day. However, four years later in 2014, they declared the entire month as PTSD Awareness Month.

Humans have been experiencing PTSD for centuries. However, it wasn’t until 1980 when the symptoms were given medical name. Before that time it was commonly associated with war or conflict. During World War I and II it was generally referred to as “shell shock”. As an invisible illness the condition was generally brushed off and soldiers were accused of faking just to keep from returning to the front lines of the war. For many their symptoms lasted long after the war ended.

Imagine being in war and watching your closest friend be killed, witnessing a serious accident, being in a crucial illness situation, or being abused. These situations can weigh on one’s mind mentally and physically. Sometimes so badly that every day life can be a challenge.

An accurate statistic is hard to determine because many who are symptomatic never seek the much needed help. However, it is estimated that about 9% -10% of todays population, adults and children alike suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

If not treated many after effects can combine with it. Alcohol abuse, drug addiction, and even suicide. This is what makes PTSD awareness so important. No matter the reason behind the symptoms of PTSD it is a treatable disorder. Not everyone understands the impact PTSD holds on someone’s life who lives with it on a daily basis. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms and have bore witness to some type of trauma, disaster, or abuse seek help before it becomes too late.

National PTSD Awareness Month is a campaign supported by the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs.