June 27

National PTSD Awareness Day

Help spread awareness for National PTSD Awareness Day and support those who have experienced trauma - together we can make a difference!

Yearly Date

June 27

Observed in

United States

Introduction

On June 27th, we come together to celebrate National PTSD Awareness Day! This day was created in 2010 to recognize and raise awareness about the mental health condition known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It's a great opportunity for us to show support for those who are suffering from PTSD, as well as recognize all of the hard work being done by advocates and treatment professionals. Let's join forces and spread some positivity on this special day!

National PTSD Awareness Day Timeline

1980

Recognition of PTSD

The American Psychiatric Association officially recognized PTSD as a mental health condition and included it in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

1990s

Research and Treatment Advance

Advances in neuroimaging techniques and neuroscience allowed for a better understanding of how trauma affects the brain, revolutionizing PTSD treatment approaches.

2008

Veterans and PTSD Focus

Recognizing the high rates of PTSD among Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans, the US government increased funding for research, treatment, and support services.

2010

First PTSD Awareness Day

National PTSD Awareness Day was first observed on June 27th, in memory of a North Dakota National Guard member who lost his life to post-traumatic stress in 2007.

2014

National PTSD Awareness Month

To further increase awareness and understanding of PTSD, June was designated as National PTSD Awareness Month in the United States.

How to Celebrate National PTSD Awareness Day

1 Educate yourself

Read up on PTSD and how it affects those living with the condition. By educating yourself, you can better understand and empathize with those affected by the disorder.

2 Reach out to a friend

Take some time to reach out to a friend who has shared their experience with PTSD. Showing your support and understanding can be an invaluable source of strength for someone.

3 Attend an event

Many organizations host events related to PTSD Awareness Day, such as panel discussions, lectures, and workshops. Get involved and learn more about the struggles those with PTSD face.

4 Donate to a cause

Support organizations that are dedicated to helping people with PTSD by donating what you can. This can make a huge difference in the lives of many individuals.

5 Spread awareness

Share information about PTSD and its impact on your social media channels or through word of mouth. The more people who become aware of this condition, the more support and understanding we can spread.

Why National PTSD Awareness Day is Important

It raises awareness of PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a serious mental illness that can have severe impacts on an individual's life. National PTSD Awareness Day helps to raise public knowledge and understanding of the disorder, which can help reduce stigma and increase access to proper diagnosis and treatment.

It brings attention to veterans

Many veterans suffer from PTSD as a result of their service, which puts them at increased risk for suicide and other health problems. National PTSD Awareness Day shines a light on the needs of these individuals and calls for greater support from our society.

It encourages treatment for those suffering

The more we learn about PTSD, the more we understand that it isn't something that can just be ignored or "gotten over". National PTSD Awareness Day helps bring attention to available treatments and therapies that can help those suffering from the disorder live healthier, happier lives.