PTSD Awareness Month: 5 Ways to Show Support

Every June, communities across the country recognize PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), reducing stigma, and encouraging people to seek help and support. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, including veterans, first responders, survivors of violence, accidents, abuse, or other difficult life experiences.

PTSD can also occur alongside mental health and substance use challenges, making compassionate support and access to care especially important. Symptoms may include anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, mood changes, avoidance, and difficulty concentrating.

PTSD Awareness Month reminds us that recovery is possible and that support from family, friends, and the community can make a meaningful difference.

5 Ways to Show Support

1. Learn More About PTSD

Taking time to understand PTSD can help reduce stigma and misconceptions. Learning about trauma, mental health, and substance use challenges can help you better support others with empathy and compassion.

2. Listen Without Judgment

Sometimes the best support is simply listening. Allow people to share their experiences at their own pace without minimizing their feelings or pressuring them to “move on.”

3. Encourage Professional Support

PTSD is treatable, and many people benefit from counseling, peer support, or behavioral health services. Encouraging someone to seek help can be an important step toward healing and recovery.

4. Practice Patience and Understanding

Recovery looks different for everyone. Some days may be harder than others, so patience, kindness, and understanding can help someone feel supported and safe.

5. Raise Awareness

Sharing educational resources and talking openly about mental health, trauma, and substance use can help reduce stigma and remind others that they are not alone.

ACTS Is Here to Help

At ACTS, we understand the impact trauma, mental health conditions, and substance use disorders can have on individuals and families. Our programs provide compassionate support and services to help people find hope, healing, and recovery.

If you or someone you know needs support, learn more about ACTS and available services at www.actsfl.org.

Five Myths About Mental Health—Debunked

Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to learn more, speak openly, and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health. Unfortunately, misconceptions still prevent many people from seeking the support they need.

Let’s take a closer look at five common myths—and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Mental health problems are rare.

Fact: Mental health challenges are more common than many people realize. Millions of individuals experience conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders every year.

Talking openly about mental health helps normalize these experiences and reminds people they are not alone.

Myth #2: Asking for help is a sign of weakness.

Fact: Reaching out for help takes strength. Whether it’s talking to a friend, joining a program, or seeking professional support, asking for help is a powerful step toward healing.

Myth #3: People should be able to “just get over it.”

Fact: Mental health conditions are not something someone can simply will away. They are real and often require support, treatment, and time – just like physical health conditions.

Myth #4: Substance use is separate from mental health.

Fact: Mental health and substance use are often closely connected. Many individuals experience both at the same time, and each can impact the other. Treating both together is key to long-term recovery.

Myth #5: Recovery isn’t possible.

Fact: Recovery is possible. With the right support, individuals can manage their mental health, overcome substance use challenges, and build meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Changing the Conversation

Breaking down myths is an important part of reducing stigma. The more we talk openly about mental health, the more we create a community where people feel safe seeking help.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s continue to educate, support one another, and remind those who may be struggling that help is available.

If you or a loved one needs support for mental health or substance use, ACTS is here to help. Call 813.246.4899 to learn more about our programs and services.