June is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month, a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, frightening, or dangerous event. This can include people who have experienced or witnessed a physical or sexual assault, abuse, an accident, a disaster, or other serious events. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened, even when they are not in danger, says the National Institute of Mental Health. PTSD is common among both civilians and military.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) National Center for PTSD. reports that at some point in their lives, 7 out of every 100 Veterans will have PTSD. In the general population, 6 out of every 100 adults will have PTSD in their lifetime.

Christopher Vedvick, national commander of Military Order of the Purple Heart, recently released a message recognizing June as PTSD Awareness Month, in which he stated PTSD is often

misunderstood, stigmatized, and under-diagnosed. Yet, it impacts many veterans who have served our nation.

“This month,” stated Vedvick, “we want to educate our community and the general public about PTSD. It’s about understanding that PTSD is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the immense strength of those who’ve experienced intense trauma. It’s about learning how to support our loved ones who may be fighting silent battles. It’s about breaking down stigmas and building bridges of compassion and empathy.”

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, 11% to 20% of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom have PTSD in a given year.

For veterans who served in the Gulf War, that rate is about 12%, and for Vietnam veterans it is about 30%. Due to the number of military veterans dealing with PTSD, research in this area continues to grow. Vedvick reflected this in his message, saying that over the years, tremendous advancements in PTSD research and treatment has been made.

“We must continue advocating for better mental health services and more extensive research,” Vedvick said. “It is our mission to ensure no veteran feels alone in their struggle with PTSD.”

Research has included both military and non-military facilities.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham stated in 2019 that the U.S. National Library of Medicine research indicates that, when people experience trauma firsthand, it changes the brain. Several areas of the brain are involved. A stress response includes the amygdala, hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. PTSD and trauma can cause lasting changes in those areas of the brain. The online article goes on to state that there are other disorders and mental health conditions that can appear along with PTSD, including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder and substance abuse.

“As the National Commander of the MOPH, I want to make it clear: We see you,” Vedvick stated. “We understand you. We stand by you. And above all, we are here for you.”

Vedvick’s statement echoes that of the Wounded Warrior Project’s online article, Veterans and PTSD: Understanding Causes, Signs, Symptoms and Treatment, which states:

“First, know that you’re not alone. We are very sorry to hear you are struggling, but we believe no matter what you’re going through, with help you can find a future to look forward to.”

The Military Order of the Purple Heart is committed to driving the conversation around PTSD, shining a light on the truth of this condition, and encouraging those who are suffering to seek help, he said. The MOPH has always stood firmly in the belief that no warrior should bear the burden of trauma alone, said Vedvick. As a community, we must strive to foster an

environment of understanding, empathy, and support.

Vedvick said he wants to spread the message of hope.

“Recovery from PTSD is achievable,” he stated. “It’s not an easy journey, but with professional help and the unwavering support of friends, family, and organizations like the MOPH, it’s certainly

possible.”

For further information on veterans and PTSD, please visit the following:

• The Wounded Warrior Project says the following: “If you think you or a loved one has PTSD, please contact the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) Resource Center at 888.997.2586 or resourcecenter@woundedwarriorproject.org, , and we will connect you with someone who can help. We’re stronger when we work together, so we collaborate with many other veterans service organizations to help veterans of all generations. Our Resource Center is always happy to work with veterans from all generations to connect them with resources specifically developed to help them.”

U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) National Center for PTSD: How Common is PTSD in Veterans? https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_veterans.asp

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIH): Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd