Bill > HRes1396

This Resolution expresses the support of the House of Representatives for designating the month of June 2026 as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month" and June 27, 2026, as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day." Post-traumatic stress, which is often referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or post-traumatic stress injury, is a severe mental and emotional condition that can develop after a person is exposed to traumatic events, such as the combat stress frequently experienced by members of the Armed Forces serving overseas. Because millions of U.S. service members have deployed into combat zones since September 11, 2001, a significant percentage of veterans suffer from these invisible wounds of war, which—if left untreated due to social stigma, lack of awareness, or barriers to mental healthcare—can lead to severe complications, including homelessness, substance abuse, and suicide. To combat this, the Resolution supports ongoing educational and cultural efforts by the Department of Defense (responsible for the U.S. military) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (the federal agency providing healthcare and other benefits to military veterans) to help the public, service members, and their families better understand post-traumatic stress, eliminate the negative social stigma attached to it, encourage timely treatment, and recognize the profound impact this condition has on military spouses and families.