June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time to shine light on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), support those affected, and reduce the stigma that often surrounds it. Each year, mental health professionals, veterans' organizations, and advocates work together during this month to promote education, empathy, and action.
In this article, we explore the history of National PTSD Awareness Month, its purpose, and meaningful ways you can get involved. Our goal? Make sure more people understand that PTSD is real, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.
National PTSD Awareness Month is observed every June to increase public understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder and to encourage those affected to seek help. While PTSD is often associated with combat veterans, it affects millions of people across the U.S.—including survivors of abuse, accidents, natural disasters, and other traumatic events.
The month focuses on:
Campaigns run throughout June to highlight the condition’s impact and share resources from trusted organizations like the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The first major step toward national recognition of PTSD came in 2010, when the U.S. Senate designated June 27 as National PTSD Awareness Day. The date honors Staff Sergeant Joe Biel, a North Dakota National Guard member who died by suicide after completing his second tour of duty in Iraq and then struggling badly with PTSD.
In 2014, the effort expanded into a month-long observance, becoming what we now know as PTSD Awareness Month. The goal was to give individuals and communities more time and opportunity to educate others, host events, and increase visibility for trauma survivors.
The legacy of Sgt. Biel—and the millions who still battle PTSD silently—drives this annual campaign of PTSD month forward.
According to the National Center for PTSD, about 6% of Americans will experience PTSD in their lifetime, and around 12 million adults in the U.S. struggle with it each year. Yet, many don’t seek help due to shame, stigma, or misinformation.
Raising PTSD awareness helps to:
PTSD is highly treatable, especially with trauma-informed care, therapy (such as CBT and EMDR), and support from friends, family, and professionals. Sadly, many people with PTSD never receive treatment. Awareness campaigns aim to change that.
Wondering what is the ribbon color for PTSD? The PTSD awareness color is teal.
The teal ribbon is worn or displayed during June to show solidarity with trauma survivors. It's a symbol of healing, hope, and strength, helping make the invisible visible. Wearing the PTSD ribbon or displaying teal lights or graphics helps spark conversations, spread education, and support those quietly suffering.
Some buildings and landmarks even light up in teal on June 27, National PTSD Awareness Day, as a public show of support.
You don’t need to be a mental health expert or a veteran to make a difference. Here are simple, meaningful ways to participate in PTSD Awareness Month:
Living with PTSD can feel incredibly isolating, and social support is a powerful part of healing. If someone you care about is struggling:
Simple actions—like a check-in text, a listening ear, or reminding them they’re not alone—can be truly meaningful.
PTSD Awareness Month is more than a symbolic observance. It’s a serious reminder that trauma affects millions, and the path to healing starts with empathy, education, and action.
Whether you're lighting up your porch in teal, taking the pledge, or simply starting a conversation, your involvement can make a real difference. Together, we can help create a world where no one struggles with PTSD in silence.
If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma or PTSD, you're not alone—and help is available.
Visit Avenues Recovery Center to learn how our trauma-informed programs support healing and long-term recovery. Or, contact us directly to speak with someone who understands.