June 27 marks National PTSD Awareness Day. The United States Marshals Service (USMS) observes this day to help break the stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While PTSD can impact anyone, it is often a lasting reality for many veterans—a reflection of their service and sacrifice. This month, we recognize their experiences and reaffirm our commitment to awareness, understanding, and compassionate support.

At UMBC, the Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership (VITAL) program offers dedicated support to student veterans. A partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, VITAL connects student veterans with VA mental health professionals and essential resources to help them thrive academically and personally.

VITAL can assist with:

• Enrollment in VA healthcare
  
  

• Navigating VA and non-VA resources
  
  

• Academic accommodations
  
  

• Advocacy for student veterans
  
  

• Clinical services for challenges such as stress, sleep problems, attention issues, anxiety, depression, and PTSD

In addition, UMBC’s Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) is here to support all students' mental health needs, offering a range of counseling, wellness, and psychiatric services in a safe and inclusive environment.

Support is here. You are not alone.

To learn more or connect with VITAL, visit  veterans.umbc.edu