PTSD United, INC. Launches Completely Free and Anonymous Social Network for Those Dealing with PTSD

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. - June 26, 2013 - PRLog -- PTSD United, INC. has launched a completely free and anonymous online social network where people can connect with others living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. PTSD United is dedicated to providing resources and support for anyone dealing with PTSD, as well as their friends and family, and educating and increasing awareness among the general public.

PTSD United is currently accepting beta testers at www.PTSDUnited.org. The non-profit organization is also in the process of forming strategic partnerships with cooperating charities, professional medical organizations, and corporations that would like an opportunity to serve their communities.

Executive Director and Army Veteran, Josh Rizzo explains the impetus behind the idea: “Transitioning into civilian life after combat, I noticed there was an epidemic in our society that extended beyond my fellow soldiers to law enforcement personnel, firefighters, first responders, victims of physical, mental, emotional, and sexual abuse, victims of accidents and tragedies, and people suffering from disease and illness, to name a few. I also noticed a stigma associated with the condition, which I still personally deal with. We formed PTSD United to help people realize that they are not alone and that there are resources out there for them.”

“The number of people in the U.S. affected by PSTD is staggering,” Rizzo continues, “But possibly the most critical group affected by PTSD are the families and friends of those suffering – not knowing how to help or what’s going on with their loved ones.”

Approximately 7-8% of the U.S. population (24 million) will experience some form of PTSD. [Department of Veteran Affairs] http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/how-common-is-ptsd.asp

One of every six American women (26 million) has been the victim of rape or attempted rape. [RAINN] http://www.rainn.org/get-information/statistics/sexual-assault-victims

Rizzo likens the Internet social networks of today to the church basements of decades past, where support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous began. “However, PTSD United is unique in that it is the only fully functional online social network that is completely free of charge and provides all members full anonymity,” he says.

Dr. ErinKate Stair, a member of the Board of Directors at PTSD United says: “As a medical field professional, I see the drastic need for an online resource like this and am thrilled PTSD United is going to be answering the call.”

The intent of the organization is perhaps best summarized by its Process: Connect, Learn, Heal, Grow, and Inspire. “Our goal,” Rizzo says, “Is to reduce the stigma of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and ensure that PTSD, and, more importantly, the population suffering from it, are given the appropriate attention and support they deserve.”

Learn more and join the community at www.PTSDUnited.org.

Josh Rizzo is a West Point 2002 graduate and Army Veteran. He can be reached at:

E: Connect@PTSDUnited.org

W: www.PTSDUnited.org