PTSD Awareness Day, June 27 2022
PTSD Awareness Day, June 27, 2022
Shell shock. War strain. Combat fatigue. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been called many things over the years, but what is it really? Many people believe that only soldiers are affected by this mental health issue, but the truth is that anyone who has experienced a traumatic event may develop symptoms of PTSD.
PTSD is a trauma and stress-related disorder that may develop after exposure to an event or ordeal in which death or severe physical harm occurred or was threatened. According to Statistics Canada, while 5% of Canadians reported having PTSD that was diagnosed by a health professional, 8% met the criteria for probable PTSD based on symptoms they experienced in the past month.
Women are nearly twice as likely to report symptoms of PTSD, with the most common traumatic event being sexual assault. This disorder can cause severe mental, emotional and behavioural symptoms, such as unwanted thoughts or dreams of the traumatic experience, strong physical reactions (like trouble breathing) when reminded of the event, strong negative emotions (like fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame) and a loss of interest in doing things once enjoyed.
PTSD Awareness Day is recognized on June 27th each year to educate the public, increase awareness, and support those affected. By creating more awareness around this complex disorder, mental health advocates hope to decrease the stigma that can stop those suffering from seeking help or asking for support.
Are you possibly suffering from PTSD?
At The Therapy Centre we have skilled Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychotherapists who effectively treat a variety of issues that may be difficult to process on your own, from everyday challenges to traumatic events with more lasting impact. We help individuals cope with difficult life circumstances like the death of a loved one, a life-altering accident, or a serious illness as well as anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
At The Therapy Centre we are now offering both in-person and Virtual Telehealth services including secure phone sessions and videoconferencing.
Our offices are located across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area, at 2525 Old Bronte Road in Oakville, 849 Upper Wentworth Street in Hamilton, and a NEW location in Toronto at 1849 Yonge St (Yonge and Davisville).
Sources:
Survey on Mental Health and Stressful Events, August to December 2021, https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/220520/dq220520b-eng.htm