Healing Beyond the Surface: Honoring National PTSD Awareness Month

June marks National PTSD Awareness Month, a time to increase understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and support those living with the ongoing effects of trauma. While PTSD is often associated with military veterans, it can affect anyone who has experienced a distressing or life-altering event—including individuals recovering from spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, strokes, or serious medical trauma.

What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Symptoms can vary but often include:

• Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories

• Anxiety, irritability, or hypervigilance

• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma

• Emotional numbness or mood disturbances

• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping

According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 6% of U.S. adults will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Each year, about 12 million Americans live with PTSD symptoms (VA.gov, 2024).

PTSD and Neurological Injury: Understanding the Connection

People recovering from neurological injuries—such as spinal cord injuries, strokes, or traumatic brain injuries—often face intense physical and emotional challenges. These life-changing events may involve emergency care, long hospitalizations, or loss of mobility, which can be deeply traumatic.

Research shows that PTSD is not uncommon during recovery, especially when individuals are navigating complex medical treatments or re-learning daily movements. The nervous system can carry the memory of trauma, and symptoms may emerge weeks or even months later, sometimes triggered by the recovery process itself.

Supporting Emotional Recovery Alongside Physical Healing

PTSD affects both mind and body. For individuals recovering from injury or illness, emotional healing is a critical part of the rehabilitation journey. Some ways to support this healing include:

• Trauma-informed care that fosters safety, respect, and a sense of control

• Mind-body approaches, such as breathing exercises or movement therapies, to help regulate the nervous system

• Adaptive physical activity that rebuilds trust in the body and restores confidence

• Mental health support, including therapy or counseling tailored to trauma recovery

Recognizing and addressing PTSD symptoms early can make a meaningful difference in overall recovery outcomes.

Breaking the Stigma Around PTSD

One of the biggest barriers to recovery is stigma. Many individuals feel ashamed of their symptoms or worry that others won’t understand what they’re going through. Raising awareness helps normalize the conversation.

During PTSD Awareness Month, consider taking these steps:

• Talk openly about mental health and trauma

• Listen compassionately to those who share their experiences

• Educate yourself about PTSD and its many causes

• Promote hope, knowing that healing is possible and help is available

You Are Not Alone

Trauma takes many forms. Whether it stems from an accident, medical emergency, or another life-changing event, PTSD is a valid response to extraordinary stress. Recovery, both physical and emotional, nis not a linear path, but with the right support, it is absolutely achievable.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, resources are available to help. You deserve understanding, compassion, and a way forward.

Sources:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2024). PTSD Basics. https://www.ptsd.va.gov

• National Institute of Mental Health. PTSD Information. https://www.nimh.nih.gov