- Lake County Behavioral Health Services
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June is PTSD Awareness Month
In 2010, the U.S. Senate declared June 27 National Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day, and the entire month of June was designated National PTSD Awareness Month in 2014.
If you think you, or someone you know, has PTSD, you are not alone, and Lake County Behavioral Health Services wants to ensure you have access to information resources and supports.
Self-care and learning to identify indicators of PTSD in ourselves and loved ones are essential to ensuring people affected by this prevalent condition receive appropriate resources and treatment.
Unfortunately, most people who have PTSD do not get the help they need.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect individuals at any age. It is defined by the American Psychological Association as, “an anxiety problem that develops in some people after extremely traumatic events.”
PTSD can result from going through or seeing a life-threatening event. Stress reactions in response to these types of events are expected, and most people begin to feel better, in time. PTSD can result in recurrent dreams about the trauma, disturbances in relationships, irritability, anger and isolation.
As the weather grows warmer and drier, Lake County residents may be reminded of the fire disasters we have experienced.
“Although we are a strong and resilient community, it is important to be aware of our mental health, and how critical good mental health is to our overall health,” said Todd Metcalf, director of Lake County Behavioral Health Services. “It’s okay to not be OK. However, seeking appropriate help and support when struggling with PTSD, or any other mental health issue, is critical to proper management.”
Treatments are available that can assist individuals suffering from PTSD. Options include different types of trauma-informed therapy, as well as medications designed to help manage symptoms.
Many find the American Psychological Association’s “How Do I Know if I need Therapy?” resource a helpful guide.
Supports and treatment for people affected by PTSD are available right here in Lake County.
For more information, contact Lake County Behavioral Health Services at 707-274-9101 or 707-994-7090.