National Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day

A diverse group of individuals sitting in a circle, wearing casual clothing, comforting and supporting each other, with a peaceful and calming background.. — National post traumatic stress awareness day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we uncover all the fun, quirky, and important national days that grace our calendars. Today, we're diving into the significance of National Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day. It's a day to honor and raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and support those affected by it.

When is Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day?

It's national post traumatic stress awareness day on the 27th June.

The Internet History of National Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day

Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day originated as an Internet-driven initiative to shed light on the far-reaching impacts of PTSD. The internet, being the incredible tool that it is, brought together individuals and organizations who were passionate about raising awareness for this important issue.

The Power of Social Media

Social media platforms played a significant role in catapulting this national day into the limelight. On June 27, 2018, the online world erupted with conversations about PTSD, sharing personal stories, informative articles, and resources to support those affected. As the day gained momentum, people began using the hashtag #PTSDAwarenessDay to connect and amplify their voices. It quickly became clear that this day was not just an online trend but a movement.

A Day of Reflection and Support

On National Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day, people are encouraged to take a moment to reflect on the impact of PTSD. It's a day to lend support to individuals who have experienced trauma and help create safe spaces for dialogue. Many organizations arrange events and fundraisers to raise funds for research, treatment, and support services.

Did You Know?

Did you know that National Post Traumatic Stress Awareness Day coincides with the birthday of one of the most influential psychiatrists in PTSD research, Dr. Rachel Yehuda? What a fitting coincidence!

History behind the term 'Post Traumatic Stress Awareness'

1980

Recognition of PTSD as a diagnosis

In the year 1980, the term 'post traumatic stress disorder' was officially recognized as a diagnosis in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) published by the American Psychiatric Association. This marked a significant step in understanding and addressing the psychological impact of traumatic experiences.

1982

Creation of the National PTSD Awareness Day

Two years later, in 1982, the Department of Veterans Affairs established the National PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Day. This day aimed to raise public awareness about PTSD and its effects on individuals, families, and communities. It became an opportunity to support and educate communities about the challenges faced by those living with PTSD.

2010

Expansion to Post Traumatic Stress Awareness

In 2010, the National PTSD Awareness Day expanded its focus to include general awareness of post traumatic stress (PTS). The objective of the expanded awareness day was to recognize and support all individuals and communities affected by post traumatic stress, not limited to veterans. This change aimed to reduce the stigma associated with PTS and increase understanding and compassion for all individuals living with the condition.

2014

Congressional designation of June as PTSD Awareness Month

In the year 2014, the United States Senate designated the entire month of June as PTSD Awareness Month. This decision aimed to further expand the efforts of raising awareness about post traumatic stress and its impact on individuals' mental health. With the month-long recognition, various organizations and communities nationwide had more opportunities to educate the public about PTSD and its available treatments.