Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of Australia’s greatest health challenges

There’s no doubt that PTSD has become a national health priority. Up to one in five frontline responders including police, ambulance officers, paramedics, firefighters and military personnel - those who dedicate their lives and careers to helping and protecting others – will suffer from it. Front-line responders have increased chances of developing PTSD, though anyone who has been exposed to an event that threatens their life or safety, including assault, vehicular accidents or disasters is also at risk.

Symptoms include a constant feeling of being under threat, flashbacks, hypervigilance, and avoidance of triggers. Untreated, PTSD can impact on every aspect of life, from employment to relationships, and social connection to wellbeing. Right now, for 70% of sufferers, current treatments are not effective beyond six months. We must find better solutions.

Given the scope of the challenge, everyone in our community has an important role to play in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of first responders and other PTSD sufferers.

Help transform PTSD research on local, national and international scales

You can help make life significantly better for people suffering from PTSD, by ensuring better care is available and effective, lasting treatments are discovered. The Thompson Institute’s National PTSD Research Centre will deliver breakthrough research into the neuroscience behind what causes PTSD and how to effectively treat it. When you give to Mental Health (PTSD) research this G-Day, your donation will contribute to facilities and programs at the National PTSD Research Centre.

Increase the impact of your gift

G-Day is a chance for your gift to have even more impact, thanks to generous donors who have pledged to match all gifts. When you give to Mental Health (PTSD) Research, your gift will be double matched, so every $1 dollar unlocks an additional $2. Donations are tax deductible and 100% will go directly to support the facilities and programs at the National PTSD Research Centre, Thompson Institute.

Learn more at www.usc.edu.au/thompson-institute

If you or someone you know needs crisis support call Lifeline on 13 11 14

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