Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune Holds PTSD Awareness Event

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL) and Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) held the first annual Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) awareness informational fair at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Exchange in support of PTSD Awareness Month, June 14th.

The event featured information provided by Military Pathways, a mental health self-assessment screening program co-sponsored by the Department of Defense and the nonprofit organization, Screening for Mental Health. This year's theme was "Proud, Tough, Strong, Determined (PTSD): It takes a different kind of courage."

According to Military Pathways, it is projected that 2.2% of the American population, about 7.7 million people, may have PTSD symptoms. In the military, it is estimated that approximately 11-20% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, 10% of Gulf War Veterans, and 30% of Vietnam Veterans experience PTSD.

"It is estimated that many cases are unreported or go untreated," said James Askins, department head, NHCL health promotion and wellness department head. "We need to raise awareness of this issue to help those affected understand PTSD and where to find help."

NHCL and MCCS staff provided approximately 600 Marines, Sailors, retirees and their family members with PTSD information on how to recognize symptoms, overcome social stigmas associated with PTSD, and how service members and their families can seek help. Information on various workshops about adapting to military life, preparing for a deployment or reunion, and reintegration was also available recognizing that staying keen on symptoms and resources during deployment cycles was important to getting help.

"PTSD awareness is absolutely important," said Master Sgt. Joel Weber. "I work in 2nd Marine Division where the majority is combat marines. Division is where the rubber meets the road, so PTSD awareness is important for the men."

NHCL regularly partners with MCCS to provide outreach and educational events for commands throughout the Camp Lejeune area. Resources ranging from group classes, to command training to anonymous text messaging or smart phone applications are available for Marines, Sailors and family members who need help.

"I believe it does take a different kind of courage to ask for help and find solutions to PTSD problems," said Askins. "Learning the facts and getting assistance from others concerning PTSD is the only way to solve PTSD problems. Knowing when, where, and how to get help is the key."

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