MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – “Youmay still carry the scar afterwards, but we fix that root problem,” said DavidDunning Director of the Memphis VA Medical Center.
To shed light on suicide prevention awareness, the VAis starting a conversation about PTSD and how to help those who are sufferingfrom it.
If you’re unfamiliar with PTSD, or Post TraumaticStress Disorder, it’s a reaction to a trauma or severely stressful event that aperson then internalizes and will constantly replay in his or her head.
Dunning said, “They play this movie over and over,whether subconsciously or consciously, and sometimes it leads to things likewithdrawal, it leads to anger.”
He also says it can lead to substance abuse. Toprevent PTSD from reaching this stage, he explains how awareness can save alife.
If you’re a veteran, reflect on your actions. Ifyou’re a family member or friend of one, look out for signs of PTSD like a shorttemper, sadness, anxiety, and a lack of desire to attend group functions, amongother telltale signs. If you notice any of these, reach out to the VA. They’rethere to help.
Dunning said, “The shame is not asking for help,not taking charge and getting out of crisis, staying out of crisis, orimproving your life.”
Always remember, if you or someone you know is incrisis, call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.