PTSD Awareness Month: Understanding Trauma and Finding Hope
June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of trauma, reducing stigma, and encouraging those who are struggling to seek support. While traumatic events may occur in the past, their effects can sometimes linger long after the experience has ended.
Have you ever noticed symptoms emerging months or even years after a painful life event? Have you struggled to adjust to major life transitions following a traumatic experience? Perhaps you have experienced nightmares, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, emotional numbness, or feelings that made you question your sense of reality. If these symptoms have affected your daily life and persisted long after the traumatic event occurred, you may be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
At Healing Pathways Foundation, we specialize in trauma-focused therapy and supporting individuals living with PTSD. According to the American Psychiatric Association, PTSD is a psychiatric condition that may develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event or series of traumatic events. Trauma is not defined solely by the event itself, but also by how the experience is perceived and processed by the individual.
Traumatic experiences can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, natural disasters, serious accidents, acts of violence, combat exposure, intimate partner violence, and life-threatening medical conditions. Trauma can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance.
In North Carolina, many individuals live with PTSD, yet an estimated 60% of those diagnosed do not receive treatment. Barriers such as limited access to care, particularly in rural communities, can make it difficult for people to receive the support they need. PTSD impacts people from all walks of life, including veterans, children, survivors of abuse, first responders, and individuals from historically marginalized communities.
Our therapists provide trauma-informed care, meaning we recognize the widespread impact of trauma and tailor treatment to meet each person's unique needs. Trauma-informed therapy prioritizes safety, trust, empowerment, and healing while working to prevent re-traumatization. We understand that healing looks different for everyone. Talking about your trauma is never required, but we provide a safe, supportive space should you choose to process those experiences.
This PTSD Awareness Month, remember that healing is possible and that you do not have to navigate your journey alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, we encourage you to reach out. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Healing Pathways Foundation today to schedule an appointment with one of our therapists and begin your path toward healing.
References
What is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Psychiatry.org - What is
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd
Mental Health Stats. (n.d.). PTSD statistics in North Carolina 2026. https://mhstats.org/north-carolina/ptsd/
Radow B, Anderson N, Richmond BK. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Trauma Patients. 2025 Feb; doi: 10.1177/00031348241290610.
