June 2024: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that may appear following a traumatic or deeply stressful event (such as exposure to death, violence, or other existential threats). It is characterized by a number of challenging, painful, limiting or unwanted emotional, behavioral, and social symptoms. Such symptoms may include intrusive thoughts, isolation, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, anger, and low mood. Even when PTSD does not develop following a traumatic event, it is important to be aware that trauma can have a deep and lasting impact on individuals and communities, and mitigation efforts should be made where and when possible.
While PTSD can happen to anyone, some may be more likely to be exposed to precursory traumatic events than others. For instance, those who serve in the military may be more likely to experience trauma than civilians. Trauma-related distress (whether it has to do with one's occupation or otherwise), can be profoundly debilitating.
Workers in the construction industry, including veterans, should be aware that support is available. BAC members (and their loved ones) who may have been exposed to trauma are encouraged to complete an online PTSD screening by clicking here or here. If you or a loved one have been negatively impacted by trauma, please contact BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK for further support.
For additional PTSD related information and resources, please visit:
If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.