June is National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness month. This is the last of the three blogs that'll explore what PTSD is, who’s at risk, and where anyone needing assistance can go for help. If you or someone you know could be suffering from PTSD, perhaps you/they should take the following steps:
1) Call A Crisis Hotline
If you have any questions about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a good place for you to start seeking answers is by calling one of the following free crisis hotlines. In addition, all these hotlines are available on a 24/7 basis and any conversations you have will be completely confidential:
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National hotline: 1-800-662-4357
- Crisis Text Line: Text 'CONNECT' to 741741
2) Seek Professional Help
If you’re seeking professional help to deal with PTSD, the person you decide to see for help should have one of the following titles:
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
- Clinical Social Worker
- Master’s Level Clinician
3) Find A Peer Support Group
Joining a PTSD peer support group is a great way to connect with other people who can relate to what you're going through. Some of the other benefits of becoming part of a support group are:
- Being around other people with PTSD will make you feel less isolated.
- You’ll make new friends who’ll understand what you’re going through.
- Hearing how others have overcome PTSD will give you a sense of hope.
- You’ll be able to express what you’re thinking and how you’re feeling in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
- You’ll learn tips and techniques on how to better cope with flashbacks, nightmares, and episodes of anxiety.
- The more comfortable you become in the group, the easier it'll be for you to ask for help if you need it.
If you’re a Hocking College student who might be suffering from some form of PTSD, contact the Hocking College Counseling Center at (740) 753-6564
