PTSD Awareness

By Lisa Maciel, MPH 

Deputy Director of Benefits 

 June is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) awareness month. PTSD was initially known as “shellshock”, and further evolved from being titled Combat Stress Reaction.  Regardless of the diagnosis name, this month is a time to help spread awareness about PTSD that might develop after significant traumatic events. What may not be traumatic for some individuals, my be traumatic for others. Over 12 million people in the United States have PTSD, though many people, if not most, do not receive treatment.   

There are various reasons why people do not seek assistance, it could be the lack of insurance or funding to get care, or stigma and misinformation.  PTSD is most often a treatable condition with the right help. Treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, alternative therapies (yoga and acupuncture), or both. A medical provider and/or therapist can help determine the best treatment for an individual.

The VA recently announced that veterans will no longer need to pay copays for their first three outpatient mental health care and substance use disorder visits each calendar year through 2027 and will date back to June 27, 2023! 

Additionally, if a veteran has a diagnosis of PTSD, and it is from their military status, the veteran can seek assistance from a veteran’s service office (VSO) to file a service-connected disability claim. If the VA deems the PTSD diagnosis is service connected, the veteran may receive disability compensation and additional healthcare benefits. 

Dependent survivors of veterans who may have died because of their service-connected PTSD may also be entitled to benefits and are highly encouraged to speak with a VSO.  

A VSO can be contacted though our Ask a VSO link by going HERE. 

What you need to know is we are here to help you; there is hope.  

If you or someone you know is in crisis, support is available 24/7, and you don’t need to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare. 

Dial 988 then press 1 or text 838255