Resolution Backs June 2025 as National PTS Awareness Month to Fight Stigma for Veterans

This resolution is straightforward: it officially expresses support for designating June 2025 as “National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month” and June 27, 2025, as “National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day.” Think of it as a formal endorsement from the House to shine a massive spotlight on Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) in our military community. While it doesn't change any laws or hand out funding, this kind of official recognition is a big deal for shifting public perception and encouraging action.

The Real-World Cost of Silence

For veterans and active service members, this resolution is about fighting the stigma that keeps people from getting help. The text specifically highlights that combat stress, especially from conflicts since 9/11, can turn into severe, long-term issues like PTSD. The problem isn't just the condition itself; it’s the fact that many service members don't report it because of the fear of being judged, which the resolution notes has historically been made worse by negative media portrayal. When PTS goes untreated, it contributes to serious problems like homelessness, substance abuse, and suicide—outcomes that affect not just the veteran, but the entire community.

What the Awareness Endorsement Actually Does

By formally backing these awareness periods, the House is throwing its weight behind educational efforts by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense (DoD). This means more resources and official encouragement for programs designed to teach everyone—from active-duty personnel to the general public—about the causes, symptoms, and treatability of PTS. The resolution also encourages military leadership to actively support appropriate treatment for service members dealing with these “invisible wounds of war.” For a military spouse or family member, this resolution validates their experience and encourages the necessary cultural shift within the Armed Forces to prioritize mental health care.

Why This Matters to Everyone Else

While this resolution is non-binding—meaning no one is legally forced to do anything—it sets the tone. It’s a public statement that PTS is a treatable injury, not a weakness. For the average person, this means that when June 2025 rolls around, you can expect a coordinated push for education. This increased awareness can help reduce the awkwardness or misunderstanding when a veteran colleague needs time off for appointments, or when a small business owner considers hiring someone with a service-connected disability. Ultimately, supporting awareness is about making it easier for veterans to transition back into civilian life healthy and whole, which benefits our economy and our communities.