Pretty Things Survivors Do Blog Hop: Sending Hugs this Holiday Season

I am so honored to be a part of the Pretty Things Survivors Do inaugural blog hop today. I'm so happy you're here. If you're hopping along with us, you have arrived from Ruby's blog.

PTSD is a “psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault” (American Psychiatric Association definition). Although mostly associated with war veterans, it affects 3.5% of the population, and 4% of US children ages 13-18 will experience PTSD in their lifetime. About 8 million adults have PTSD during a given year. (Bran and Behavior Research Foundation) 

This issue hits close to home for me because a dear family member is a war veteran who served several tours in Iraq. I know very little about what he saw and endured while serving our country because he doesn't share the details with us, but what I do know is horrific. And I know he returned a different man than when he departed. I would give anything to take away the emotional pain that those suffering from PTSD endure, whether it be from serving in war or due to any other cause.  

I kept those suffering from PTSD in mind as I created this card.  I turn to creating as a way to escape the anxiety I endure as a result of taking care of a child with a chronic health condition (as well as the stresses of just everyday parenting), and I wish it was that simple for those suffering from more than these everyday pressures.  The holidays in particular are a difficult time for those living with PTSD. We are participating in the blog hop in the hopes that you may be reminded to reach out to loved ones, neighbors, and friends who could be living with PTSD daily. If one person is remembered this holiday season, then we have achieved our goal of spreading awareness. 

Thank you for joining us! Next up on the hop is Mamie Carson Wadsworth.  If you know someone who lives with PTSD and would like ways to support them, please visit the following sites and remember to reach out to a neighbor, friend or family member during this holiday season.  This could make a huge difference in their day!  

The National Institute of Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml

US Department of Veteran Affairs https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Thank you for joining us today!