IDF officer wants to raise awareness to PTSD in a social media challenge

Among war veterans, PTSD occurs in higher numbers than in the average population, likely due to the stressful nature of combat duties.

AUGUST 31, 2020 03:43

IDF prepares for possible Hezbollah attack in northern Israel, July 2020 (photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) — IDF prepares for possible Hezbollah attack in northern Israel, July 2020

(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

In what seems to be an attempt to start a social media challenge, Lt.-Col. Johnathan Conricus of the IDF spokesperson's unit posted on his personal Twitter account a short video in which he filmed himself doing 25 push-ups.

The strenuous exercise, preferred by drill Sargent in many of the world's militaries to punish insubordinate recruits, was carried out as part of an attempt to raise awareness to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Those who take up the challenge must do 25 push-ups for 25 days. However, prior to finding themselves face down on the floor, they must raise their hand to show their support for the challenge.

PTSD is a killer. A silent one. To raise awareness of PTSD and raise my hand in compassion with all my brothers in arms, from the @IDF and around the world, I’m participating in a challenge: 25 pushups for 25 days. Day 1. pic.twitter.com/UcZQIpU86T
— Jonathan Conricus (@LTCJonathan) August 30, 2020

PTSD is considered to be a severe mental health condition that is caused by a terrible event that was experienced in the past that comes back in the form of flashbacks, persistent thoughts about the event, nightmares and severe anxiety.

Among war veterans, PTSD occurs in higher numbers than in the average population, likely due to the stressful nature of combat duties.

Patients who experience PTSD are also more likely to attempt suicide.