June is PTSD Awareness Month: How to Support, Understand, and Heal
June is recognized as PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a mental health condition that often goes unnoticed. By increasing public awareness, challenging the stigma around it, and advocating for effective treatment, we can support those who are suffering in silence. At Mae Mental Wellness, we are committed to helping individuals heal from trauma through evidence-based, compassionate care.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that develops after exposure to a distressing or life-threatening event. While many associate PTSD with military veterans, anyone can experience PTSD, regardless of age, gender, or background.
According to Accellacare, up to 80% of people experience a traumatic event in their lives, resulting in PTSD in about “5% to 10% of this population.” These events may include physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, childhood abuse, or witnessing violence.
PTSD can manifest immediately after the trauma or emerge months or even years later, especially in cases of complex PTSD related to prolonged or repeated trauma.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD symptoms generally fall into four categories, though individuals may experience them differently:
1. Intrusion Symptoms
Distressing flashbacks or intrusive memories
Nightmares related to the trauma
Feeling as though the event is happening again ("reliving" the trauma)
2. Avoidance Behaviors
Avoiding places, people, or situations that are reminders of the trauma
Refusing to talk or think about the event
Suppressing emotions tied to the memory
3. Negative Changes in Mood or Thinking
Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world
Feelings of detachment or numbness
Loss of interest in activities
Guilt, shame, or distorted self-blame
4. Hyperarousal and Reactivity
Irritability or angry outbursts
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Hypervigilance or being easily startled
Risky or self-destructive behaviors
These symptoms can range in intensity and may interfere significantly with relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
How PTSD Affects Daily Life
PTSD doesn’t just “go away” with time. Many individuals find themselves trapped in survival mode, constantly on edge, emotionally withdrawn, or overwhelmed by triggers they don’t fully understand.
In the workplace, PTSD can lead to difficulty focusing, fatigue, or absenteeism. In relationships, it may cause emotional distance, irritability, or communication breakdowns. Physically, it can lead to chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and other stress-related illnesses.
At Mae Mental Wellness, we emphasize a holistic approach to trauma recovery, recognizing the deep interconnection between the mind, body, and environment.
Effective PTSD Treatment Options
PTSD is treatable—with the right support and intervention. Some of the most effective, evidence-based approaches include:
CBT, CPT, or Exposure Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) help individuals change thoughts and behaviors that contribute to PTSD symptoms.
Exposure Therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to stimuli that trigger their trauma memories in a safe and controlled environment, helping them reduce fear and anxiety overtime.
Medication Management
In some cases, medications such as SSRIs, SNRIs, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics and various other types of medications can reduce anxiety and depression symptoms that accompany PTSD.
Self-help strategies
Mindfulness, yoga, exercise, sleep hygiene, and grounding techniques can also be used to aid in treatment of PTSD.
Joining peer support groups and expressive therapies like art or journaling can help too.
Mae Mental Wellness offers personalized treatment plans that integrate traditional psychotherapy with holistic mental wellness strategies. Get in touch with us today to get started on your treatment plan.
How to Support Someone with PTSD
Supporting a loved one with PTSD requires patience, empathy, and education. Here are some meaningful ways to help:
Listen without judgment.
Let them talk when they’re ready.
Avoid minimizing their experiences or suggesting they should “just move on.”
Encourage professional help, but don’t pressure them.
Be mindful of triggers, and ask what helps them feel safe.
Take care of yourself too. Supporting someone with PTSD can be emotionally taxing.
If you're unsure how to help, Mae Mental Wellness can provide family counseling and educational resources to guide you.
Ready to take the next step in your mental health journey?
To book an appointment at Mae Mental Wellness, you can fill out this form or call (561) 231-0233. Learn more about services we offer and which insurance we accept.
