PTSD

The acronym for posttraumatic stress disorder has become too common in usage among military personnel and their families.

Perhaps if I type the letters in lower case they will not carry the same weight, hold the same judgment, or indicate the same diagnosis.

ptsd

No. Large or small, the letters PTSD convey meaning and generate questions.

The US Department of Veterans’ Affairs National Center for PTSD has designated the month of June as PTSD Awareness Month. In an effort to bring greater awareness to the issue, the United State Senate designated June 27 as PTSD Awareness Day.

Wherever one lands on the spectrum for PTSD, the need to seek help is vital. PTSD has a face—that of man, woman, or child. If you live and work among folks who have anything to do with the military, chances are you have spoken to a PTSD sufferer this very day.

Perhaps that person is you.

You may have questions about PTSD in the context of women and the military:

  • Are women Veterans more subject to developing posttraumatic stress disorder than male Veterans? If so, why?
  • How might a Veteran’s PTSD symptoms affect his or her children?
  • What relationship problems are common when PTSD is part of the equation?

You will find discussions of questions like these and many others on the official website of the US Department of Veterans’ Affairs National Center for PTSD: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/family/partners-of-vets.asp.

This website offers a wealth of information on all topics related to PTSD. In this one stop, you will discover information, education, resources, and direction for dealing with the signs, symptoms, and treatment of PTSD.

As a Christian ministry, Planting Roots values all forms of healing. We are thankful for the various mental and physical health agencies that join to bring help to those who suffer.

We also recognize the power of God, who can bring healing to our hearts, minds, and memories through the work of His Spirit. The good news is, the Lord can give us wisdom in how to depend on Him while we take advantage of medical advances in the area of PTSD.

The message Planting Roots desires to communicate is that you are not alone. There are people, agencies, ministries who are available to support you, and a God who loves you. He is “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Check out these invaluable resources that offer hope and help for the journey: