We Have Beds Available! Call for Same Day Admission.855-722-6926
We Have Beds Available! Call For Same Day Admission. 855-722-6926

World Trauma Day: October 17th 

World Trauma Day - October 17th

Mental Breakdown. Depressed Black Military Woman Covering Face With Hands, Upset African American Soldier Female In Camouflage Uniform Sitting On Couch And Crying, Suffering PTSD, Copy Space

World Trauma Day 2022 

It is an unfortunate reality that many of the brave men and women who have served our country may have experienced some form of trauma while doing so. When these events occur, how it is responded to can be the deciding factor for possible issues to come. They can have an impact on a person's physical body, as well as their mind. To highlight the importance of treating these instances with the care and compassion they deserve, Banyan’s Military and Veterans in Recovery program takes a closer look at World Trauma Day and how you and those you love can take part in observing it. 

Holiday History 

Trauma is not a new concept in the slightest. The earliest recorded instances of such events date all the way back to the year 5 B.C., when a Spartan commander would excuse soldiers that were too “...out of heart…” to participate in battle, despite their previously demonstrated bravery. Additionally, traits of these instances were shared between soldiers who took part in the American Civil War of the 1860s, and the Vietnam War, among others.  

World Trauma Day was first officially observed by the country of India on October 17th, 2011. The high rate of road traffic accidents and related deaths influenced the holiday's conception. Its intention is to create awareness of the impact these events have, what can be done to reduce injuries and death as a whole, and how we can effectively cope with such events on a personal level.  

What Counts as Trauma? 

While recent years have seen the term thrown around carelessly through internet culture and the common practice of self-diagnosis, the phrase trauma refers to “any injury caused to the body.” This can result from car accidents, burns, falls, fires, or acts of violence. It is understandable that soldiers who serve may be more likely to experience these instances due to the context of their profession and sacrifices. Other common causes of trauma include road accidents, sexual assaults, or domestic abuse.  

If any of these experiences are not dealt with properly, whether through physical or mental therapeutic treatment, it can leave victims with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  

Symptoms of PTSD can include: 

  • Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks 
  • Avoiding places, people, or activities that may remind you of the event  
  • Being easily startled 
  • Trouble sleeping 
  • Feeling the need to be on guard at all times 
  • Irritability or aggressiveness 
  • Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities 
  • Reliving the event mentally 

 

A rising number of traumatized individuals have resorted to alternative means of coping with their struggles, resulting in substance use disorders being a widespread problem amongst our veterans. Banyan offers military addiction treatment designed to support these brave Americans at whatever stage of healing they are in.  

How to Observe World Trauma Day 

Trauma is not a one-and-done deal. Depending on the individual, it can have lifelong effects if not dealt with properly, whether it's from time served in the military to commonplace road accidents. World Trauma Day seeks to bridge the common gap in understanding how we take these experiences with us after the fact and what we can do to support those close to us that are affected. 

Ways to honor world trauma day include: 

  • Advocate for safer road conditions: As road accidents are the most common cause of these events, encouraging proper road usage at a personal and community level can be beneficial for many. 
  • Educating yourself and others about the severity and impact of actual trauma: Knowledge is essential. While it is wonderful for people to be able to identify with one another's struggles, co-opting the phrase can be detrimental to actual survivors. Not allowing the severity of these events to get swept up in trends helps to prevent this. 
  • Engage with a traumatized individual: With kindness and empathy, speaking to survivors can help to relieve some of the mental weight they could be experiencing.  

Banyan’s military rehab center offers a variety of therapies designed specifically to help our veterans overcome the residual effects of trauma. Whether it’s PTSD, addiction, or even dual diagnoses, we are committed to providing expert care to the men and women who made some of the most valiant sacrifices for this country.  

To learn more about our military drug rehab programs, call Banyan Veterans in Recovery at 888-280-4763 today.  

 

 Related Readings: 

Tips for Adjusting to Civilian Life After the Military 

Suicide in the Military: Signs and Treatment 

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.