PTSD Awareness Month

We at Acadian Federal Resources recognize that many veterans suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This month and every month, we honor those who have served our nation and we realize the sacrifice that comes with doing so.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs defines PTSD as “a mental health problem. PTSD can only develop after you go through or see a life-threatening event. It’s normal to have stress reactions to these types of events, and most people start to feel better after a few weeks. If symptoms last longer than a month and are causing problems in your life, it could be PTSD.” They also state that learning about PTSD symptoms and treatments can help to recover.

 

Symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Reliving a traumatic event (nightmares or flashbacks).
  • Avoiding things that remind you of the event.
  • Having more negative thoughts and feelings than before the event.
  • Feeling on edge or “keyed up” (also known as hyperarousal).

 

It’s okay to reach out for help. Talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy) and medication are both available forms of treatment for PTSD.

 

Read more about what the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs states about PTSD and some best practices for managing its symptoms at the link below.

PTSD Basics – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs