June Is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Month

Be informed. Be impowered. 

While combat Veterans are often the first people we think of in association with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), civilians who have been through a serious traumatic event can also develop PTSD. In addition to war zone exposure, triggering events can include physical or sexual assault; serious accidents; natural or man-made disasters (such as a terrorist attack); and torture.

A serious traumatic event such as those listed above is the one trait all PTSD sufferers have in common. However, many myths abound about PTSD that must be addressed to better understand the illness. These myths include:

• Only Veterans suffer from PTSD—while many of those with PTSD are Veterans who have been through unthinkable traumas in war zones, they are not the only ones who can develop PTSD.
• People with PTSD are weak—patently false. One of the most consistent findings is the greater the severity of the causing trauma, the greater likelihood of developing PTSD. This has no bearing on one’s mental or emotional strength.
• Those who have PTSD are dangerous—don’t believe what you see in the movies about the person with PTSD going on a violent spree. Those with PTSD are more likely to isolate themselves and tend to avoid situations that remind them of the traumatic event.

If there is one thing people should be most aware of when it comes to PTSD, it’s the amount of support resources available. PTSD is treatable and support is readily found from organizations in person and online. For Veterans, this includes DAV (Disabled American Veterans), the Wounded Warrior Project, the US Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, and PsychArmor Institute. Civilians can also find assistance, particularly at Faces of PTSD and the PTSD Alliance. These organizations offer education and support in many forms. Remember, if you suspect that you or a loved one has PTSD, the bravest thing you can do is seek help.

At Home Helpers of Media, we understand how to conscientiously provide support for those with PTSD. Our Exceptional Caregivers are trained to aid families living with these care issues. We offer companion care, transportation services, personal monitoring with Direct Link® and more.

Contact us at (610) 991-7532 to schedule a free in-home consultation to learn how we can create a unique in-home care plan that meets the needs of your loved one and provides you the peace of mind you deserve. Our vision is to be the extended family when the family can’t be there by delivering the same type of care we would want for our own loved one. 

Home Helpers® Home Care knows how to accommodate individuals with PTSD and provide peace of mind for their families.  We would love to work with you to design a plan that meets your needs and budget.