Understanding PTSD: Awareness, Symptoms & Self-Screening Tools for Veterans
June is PTSD Awareness Month — a time to reflect on the invisible wounds many veterans carry long after their service ends. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects a significant portion of the veteran community, yet it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. This article offers a breakdown of what PTSD is, how to recognize its symptoms, and what tools and resources are available to support veterans and their families.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Veterans may develop PTSD from combat exposure, military sexual trauma (MST), accidents, or other distressing experiences. It is not a sign of weakness; it’s a medical condition recognized and treatable through a variety of methods.1
PTSD Symptoms to Watch For
PTSD symptoms fall into four main categories:
Re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares
Avoidance of reminders or thoughts related to the trauma
Negative thoughts and mood, including guilt, fear, or detachment
Increased arousal, such as irritability, trouble sleeping, or being easily startled
Symptoms can vary and might not appear immediately after the traumatic event.2
Self-Screening Tools and When to Seek Help
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers a PTSD self-screening tool to help individuals identify potential signs of PTSD. It is a brief questionnaire designed to assess symptoms and guide individuals toward the next steps if needed. June 27, 2025 is National PTSD Screening Day, an opportunity to check in with yourself or encourage loved ones to do so.3
Where to Get Help
Veterans experiencing symptoms of PTSD can access care through:
VA Mental Health Services
Local Vet Centers
The National Center for PTSD
Mobile apps like PTSD Coach and PTSD Family Coach
The Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1
Prompt attention and support can make a life-changing difference.4
Disclaimer: Obsidian Ridge Law is not a medical professional and does not provide medical advice. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.
1. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “PTSD: National Center for PTSD.” https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
2. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5).
3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “PTSD Self-Screen.” https://www.ptsd.va.gov/screen/
4. National Center for PTSD. “Where to Get Help.” https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/index.asp