Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a frequent response among individuals who have undergone trauma in their lives. While PTSD is often associated with those who have endured combat, it’s crucial to broaden awareness about this mental health condition and its impact on diverse populations. 

In 2019, a study done by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found that on average there are 17 veteran suicides per day. This underscores the importance of recognizing the intersectionality between the population served at Radiant Futures and individuals affected by combat-related PTSD. 

Among survivors of domestic violence, some may have military backgrounds themselves, faced harm from a veteran, or currently grapple with symptoms related to PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD can vary, encompassing flashbacks, avoidance of trauma triggers, negative beliefs or emotions, and heightened arousal or vigilance. Moreover, individuals dealing with PTSD might experience triggers triggered by specific scents, sounds, people, or environments, potentially leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance misuse or emotional detachment.

At Radiant Futures, the PTSD group, occurring Tuesday’s at 5 PM in English and Spanish, provides psychoeducation about the impact trauma has on the overall well-being of a person, and provides participants with a healthy environment to engage in conversation about PTSD and learn coping mechanisms. Participants are encouraged to navigate our Sensory Room, as trauma can often be stored as a somatic memory and continuous physiological arousal could further hinder the healing process. This room allows participants to reconnect with and regulate their senses through visual, tactile, and auditory stimulation. Raising awareness towards the complexity of PTSD and drawing the connection and similarities about how different groups experience PTSD is essential in order to better provide services to all.  

Participants can reach out to Radiant Futures’ 24/7 Bilingual Helpline at 877-552-5531 or text LOVE@radiantfutures.org  to get more information and to RSVP for Radiant Futures’ PTSD Processing Group and enroll in clinical services to participate in the sensory room.