KANSAS CITY, Mo. – June 1 marks the start of National PTSD Awareness Month, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is reminding America’s military and veteran community that you are never alone.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a profound and lasting response to a single or multiple highly stressful events, many of which can be found in military service. For some, it is a mental and emotional injury borne from service to one’s country, and while the wounds of war are often invisible, their impacts on veterans, families and communities are deeply felt. When left unaddressed PTSD can lead to severe isolation, but the VFW is working to ensure no veteran navigates the darkness by themselves.
“Asking for support is not waving a white flag, it is a tactical decision to stay in the fight for your family, your future and your life,” said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore. “In the VFW, we do not leave our fallen on the battlefield, and we sure as hell don’t leave our brothers- and sisters-in-arms behind at home. Our Posts exist to be safe harbors of genuine camaraderie and trust where you can speak freely, without judgement, and be among those who have walked the same dirt.”
The VFW continues its advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, fighting to expand VA’s mental health care tools and programs, including moving beyond standard treatment options, championing written, informed consent, and eliminating the administrative red tape so veterans in rural and underserved areas can access mental health specialists without delay.
Throughout June, the VFW encourages all veterans, their families and communities to:
- Educate and Recognize: Learn the signs of PTSD and how to better support the veterans in your life.
- Break the Silence: Foster open, compassionate conversations about mental wellness so we can break down the outdated stigmas that keep someone from seeking help.
- Offer Connection: Reach out and check on your battle buddies. A simple call or visit can help bridge the gap of isolation.
- Share Lifelines: Keep vital resources visible. If you or a veteran you know is in crisis, call or text the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988 then Press 1; text 838255 or chat online), learn about VA's PTSD programs or connect with your local VFW Posts.
For nearly 127 years, we have championed the rights of those who have fought for our liberty, and this June, the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary reaffirm our solemn pledge to Honor the Contract of their service. As part of the less than 1% of Americans willing to serve and sacrifice for something greater than yourselves, those burdens are not something we will let you carry alone.