June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day: Know the Symptoms and Risk Factors for acute stress and PTSD During COVID-19

Loyola Medicine Clinical Psychologist Elizabeth Simmons believes it's important for everyone--especially those at high risk for extreme stress and trauma during to the COVID-19 pandemic (front line health care workers, essential workers and COVID-19 survivors)--to be aware of the symptoms of acute stress disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Acute stress disorder can occur during the first month of ongoing stress and trauma, and if the stress and trauma continues for more than one month, progress to PTSD. 

June is PTSD Awareness Month, and Saturday, June 27, is PTSD Awareness Day. Dr. Simmons is available to discuss the symptoms of PTSD, the importance of self-care for those at high-risk (and really, everyone) during COVID-19, and how and where to seek help when necessary.