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June is PTSD Awareness Month; local Veterans share their stories

By Gregory Kendall, Public Affairs Specialist

June is PTSD Awareness Month, and two Atlanta Veterans recently shared their stories in hopes of bringing year-round attention on how the disorder affects those around us, particularly service members.

Kevin Jones, who served in the Army for four years as an infantryman, said he now suffers from PTSD after spending time in Iraqi war zones. "PTSD can significantly impact those experiencing it, affecting every aspect of a person's life, but it’s important to know that there is always someone out there to reach out to for help, like Atlanta VA doctors or fellow veterans,” Jones said.

According to retired Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant Joseph McGee, asking for help is often very hard because some service members don’t want others to know that they are getting treatment to solve their mental and emotional issues. “For those who served, there is a lot of stigma associated with PTSD treatment since it can be perceived as a sign of weakness, “ McGee said. “However, the good news is that Veterans dealing with PTSD do not have to suffer silently because treatment is available, it works, and it's within reach."

Both Veterans had some advice for others suffering from PTSD:  Find something that works, don’t stay silent, and acknowledge the problem. 

If you or someone you know suffers from PTSD, please dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 to quickly connect Veterans, service members, and their loved ones to the Veterans Crisis Line’s lifesaving services.