Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health disorder, initiated after a traumatic event, has profound effect on the lives of those impacted by it. These traumatic event could be a real or perceived threat of injury or death: including medical event, military combat, physical or sexual assault, an accident, a natural disaster etc. Most people who experience one of these events have no problems afterward, but a small percentage develop PTSD. These individuals need support and understanding. However, most of them don’t seek treatment fearing the stigma associated with the disorder. Thus observance of “PTSD Awareness Day” will help bring awareness to the public, eliminate stigma associated with the disorder, and provide better care.

PTSD can happen to anyone at any age. It can affect the daily activities and function of the individual affected. Individuals experience heightened sense of danger, troubled sleep, trauma, anxiety, haunting memories of the event, avoidance of things or people who remind of the traumatic event, trouble concentrating, increased arousal and reactivity, negative or distorted self-thoughts, disliking activities they once enjoyed, panic attacks, and depression.

PTSD also can affect those around people with the disorder. The symptoms that people with PTSD experience can often strain the strongest relationships. Thus, understanding and managing PTSD is important. Support groups, healthy lifestyle, and friends and family play an important role to help recover. Psychotherapy helps to identify symptom triggers, manage your symptoms, and face your fears. Treatments like therapy, medication, or a combination of the two may help. Unfortunately, the traumatic events that lead to PTSD cannot be prevented. However, a strong support system can save people with PTSD from experiencing flashbacks and other symptoms. Talking your mind to the trusted one can do wonders.