PTSD Awareness Day

PTSD Awareness Day: Understanding, Support, and Recovery

June 27th marks PTSD Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the impact it has on individuals and their families. PTSD is the most common mental health disorder after depression, affecting around 7% of Australians at any given time. This means over 1.5 million Australians are currently living with PTSD, a condition that can arise after experiencing a traumatic event. Such events are not rare; three in four Australians will encounter an event that can cause psychological trauma in their lifetime.

PTSD can have a profound effect on a person’s life, influencing their physical and emotional wellbeing, and altering their perceptions of themselves, others, and the world around them. The psychological impacts of trauma are deep and complex, often impairing one’s ability to feel safe and maintain healthy relationships. The symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event, making daily life challenging.

First responders, including police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, are particularly vulnerable to developing PTSD due to the nature of their work. They are frequently exposed to life-threatening situations and witness traumatic events regularly. This constant exposure can lead to chronic stress and, eventually, PTSD. FORTEM Australia plays a crucial role in supporting first responders by connecting them to essential services and creating a community where they can share their experiences and find support. FORTEM’s services are free and confidential, offering a range of supports from counselling to resilience-building programs. Their goal is to provide timely self-care to prevent trauma from taking hold and to reduce the overall stress experienced by first responders and their families.

Veterans are another group at risk of developing PTSD, often as a result of their military service. The experiences of combat, exposure to violence, and the high-stress environment of military operations can leave lasting psychological scars. RSL Sub-Branches across Australia are dedicated to supporting veterans by offering  advocacy,  connection to services, and opportunities for social connection. These branches provide a sense of community and a support network that is vital for veterans dealing with PTSD, helping them navigate the path to recovery and renewal.

If a loved one is suffering from PTSD, your support can make a significant difference in their recovery.  For more information, visit Phoenix Australia or call Lifeline at 13 11 14 for confidential 24-hour counselling and referrals.