Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Month Recognized By Pierce County

PIERCE COUNTY, WA — Pierce County is trying to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder.

The County Council last month unanimously voted in favor of Resolution No. R2021-80, officially designating this June as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Month, in an effort to "bring awareness to those with PTSD, and to encourage people to reach out to their fellow citizens for support and remove the stigma associated with this condition."

As the resolution notes, between 10 and 30 percent of all service members will develop PTSD within a year of leaving combat, but though there is treatment for PTSD available, many sufferers do not get formally diagnosed or do not seek treatment.

The resolution says, that can lead to deadly results:

"Raising awareness of this condition is necessary to remove the stigma and to encourage those suffering to seek proper and timely treatment that may save their lives."

According to the National Center for PTSD, about 7-8 out of every 100 people will have PTSD at some point in their lives. The center says PTSD can happen to everyone, and is not a sign of weakness as it's triggered by events out of that person's control.

PTSD can cause flashbacks, bad dreams or disturbing, frightening thoughts, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Patients suffering from PTSD often feel easily startled, on edge and may have angry outbursts. They may also end up avoiding places that remind them of their traumatic experiences and may try to bury their thoughts or feelings related to the trauma.

If you or a loved one is suffering from PTSD, there is help available. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers free counseling for veterans in need of assistance. They also run a Veterans crisis line at 800-273-TALK (8255). The VA also offers readjustment counseling services at their vet centers. The Tacoma center can be contacted at (253) 565-7038.

The official designation comes as part of a broader push by the county to better recognize and respond to mental health issues. Earlier this year, the county council passed a behavioral health tax to fund several mental health initiatives. The 0.1 percent sales tax will go into effect next month.

Related: Pierce County Passes Behavioral Health Tax: What To Know