SACRAMENTO – The California State Senate recognized Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day during a ceremony on the Senate Floor on Thursday.

“Throughout the history of this great state, millions of Californians have answered the call of duty with the Armed Forces, putting their lives in harm’s way to protect our freedoms, democratic values and our way of life,” Sen. Mike McGuire said. “And we know – even if soldiers aren’t deployed to an active war zone, PTSD is impacting American troops in record numbers. Despite the fact that less than 15 percent of American forces see combat, the United States Military has the highest rate of PTSD in its history, which is why we must continue to shine the light on this critical issue.”

Although the United States Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs have made great advances in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD among veterans, many challenges still remain.

PTSD Awareness Day was made official by Senate Resolution 50, which was approved by the State Senate Thursday. SR 50 also recognizes the need to focus on expanded PTSD services for our active military personnel and veterans.

In attendance for Thursday’s Senate session were Sean Stephens from the Marin County Veteran’s Service Office and Mark Orlando from the Sonoma County Veteran’s Service Office.

Stephens was the one who originally advanced the idea of PTSD Awareness Day to the Senator several months ago.