June 27 is National PTSD Awareness Day
In 2016, Tony Whelan was an Army Master Sergeant stationed at Fort Knox after multiple combat tours in the Middle East. He knew he needed help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also thought he needed to hide it because he was “tough” and in a leadership position.
Walking through the hospital on post one day, Tony saw a sign about mental health and took his first step toward healing.
More than six years later, Tony – now retired from the Army and a Principal Program Manager for Logistics at GE Appliances – continues therapy and advocates for mental health care among his co-workers.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health issue that can develop after a person experiences one or more traumatic events. It was once thought to only affect returning combat veterans, but it is now more commonly diagnosed in people who have experienced violent crime or other catastrophic events.
Stats Reveal PTSD More Common
According to the PTSD Foundation of America:
- 7.8% of Americans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives
- 1 in 3 service members who have spent time in war zones experience PTSD.
- 50% of PTSD sufferers seek treatment.
According to PTSD United:
- 1 in 5 of adults in the U.S. who have experienced a traumatic event have PTSD.
Given that service members are one of the most vulnerable populations when it comes to stress-related illnesses, the Veterans Alliance is a safe place to share about PTSD. The group offers resources for veterans dealing with the effects of PTSD.
Do something to break the stigma!
Tony says talking openly about his struggle with PTSD and depression, and how counseling helped him, can help others feel more comfortable seeking help themselves. That goes for veterans and anyone who is grappling with the complex issues of life.
While today is National PTSD Awareness Day, June is National PTSD Awareness Month, and the color teal stands for it. Show your support by wearing teal wristbands or displaying ribbon magnets or lapel pins.
Symptoms of PTSD
- nightmares
- unwanted memories
- anxiety
- depressed mood
- avoidance of situations that bring back memories of the trauma
Do you need help? Check out the resources available to GE Appliances employees and their dependents.
How is GE Appliances supporting mental health?
- Partnering with CareATC and Anthem to provide counseling services (EAP) onsite and virtually
- Requiring Trauma-Informed Training for all managers
- Inviting employees to attend mental health training sessions
- Providing benefits that address wellness issues impacting employees’ mental health (e.g., help for addiction, financial education)
- Continuing the conversation around mental health as an organization by hosting quarterly Mental Health Matters series that includes live and online content for employees.