June 27 is National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Screening Day. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers an online screening tool for those who may be experiencing symptoms.
The VA website says it is the world’s leading research and educational center of excellence on PTSD and traumatic stress, and explains “PTSD is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or traumatic event.”
The VA reports that 23% of Veterans using VA care have had PTSD, compared to 7% of those not using VA care. In 2021, of the 6 million Veterans served by the VA Health system, about 10% of men and 19% of women were diagnosed with PTSD. The VA suggests talk therapy, medication, and other treatments are available for people experiencing PTSD.
A 2023 study published by the American Psychological Association found that veterans who received service dog placements had better emotional health, improved quality of social interactions, and lower odds of panic attacks. K9 for Warriors shared the story of Kerry, a Virginia resident, mother, Marine veteran, and former first responder. She received Bass, her certified service dog from K9s for Warriors, the nation’s largest shelter-to-service organization, said publicist Olivia Stern.
Kerry had many traumatic experiences in her career and found K9s For Warriors online when searching for help. The organization paired her with rescue-turned-Service Dog Bass, who is specially trained to help PTSD or other war-related traumas that afflict veterans. During their first night together, Bass woke Kerry up from a nightmare. Kerry said she and Bass are now a team that tackles everyday situations that previously seemed impossible.
The VA encourages those who may have experienced traumatic events to consider taking the self-screening test, reaching out to medical providers, and talking to friends or family. The VeteransCrisisLine is available for veterans and their families.
Kelly Sienkowski is a freelance reporter for Potomac Local News. If you’re not getting our FREE email newsletter, you are missing out. Subscribe Now!
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Scenes from Sept. 28, 2024 in Fredericksburg, Virginia
On September 26, officers investigated a bomb threat at Brixx Wood Fired Pizza, prompted by a phone call from a Woodbridge man, police said.
On September 26, officers near Manassas attempted to detain Jaime Antoni Villatoro Santos, who actively resisted and assaulted an officer. He was arrested and charged with assault and battery on a law enforcement officer and obstruction of justice.
The Prince William County Police Department is seeking help in locating missing juvenile Phoenix Marsalis Lewis, who left his home on Pearson Dr. on September 25, 2024.
Established transportation company has immediate part-time position open as a back-up driver transporting military personnel from the Woodbridge area to Baltimore and Richmond. No CDL required but must be able to pass DOT physical and drug test. Must good driving record and pass criminal background check. Send resume with references to [email protected] or call 606-594-7018
Job details
Employer: Bfs Transportation
Position: 15 Passenger Van Driver
Employment type: Part-time
Workplace type: Fully in-person (in Woodbridge)
Compensation: Not specified
Application deadline: Not specified
Contact for application questions: Not specified
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Maestro Julien Benichou, Conductor
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