Background

This educational session is the first in a list of multiple training and educational opportunities offered free of charge in DeKalb County associated with the National American Legion's #1 Mission and the DeKalb County initiative, "Be the One",  that will help to build awareness about the veteran suicide crisis, destigmatize asking for mental health support, and provide background on how to identify and assist veterans in crisis.  

Discussing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is critical in addressing suicide because individuals with PTSD face a significantly elevated risk of suicidal ideation and attempts.  Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone, not just veterans.  About 1 out of every 20 adults in the U.S. (or 5% of Americans) has PTSD in any given year, and even though PTSD treatments work, most people who have PTSD don't get the help they need.  

Information

This session is a free educational/training program made possible by donors throughout the DeKalb County community and participants in the Annual Be the One Walk.  It is offered to community and professional members of the community who might be affected by PTSD in some way or just want to learn more about it as we continue to try to reduce suicide rates and decrease the stigma associated with mental health.

June is PTSD Awareness Month and June 27th is National PTSD Screening Day.  Come to learn, share experiences, and help spread the word that PTSD treatment works!  

Content

• Understanding PTSD and educating everyone that it is a common, physical response to trauma--not a personal weakness
• Causes and symptoms of PTSD
• How to support someone with PTSD and communicate effectively
• The effectiveness and availability of evidence-based treatments
• The dissemination of authoritative resources and tools

Faculty

Katherine Beck (Kati) has performed almost two decades of distinguished service to our nation, bringing a deep commitment to service, connection and advocacy for Veterans and their families.  A retired United States Air Force Personnelist and Korean Cryptolinguist, Kati built a strong foundation in leadership, cross-cultural communication, and mission focused operations while supporting global defense initiatives.  

Following military retirement, Kati continued her dedication to service as a Peer Support Specialist, working directly with Veterans to provide guidance, encouragement, and lived-experience.  Kati's work focused on empowering fellow service members as they navigated transition, recovery, and reintegration, fostering resilience and hope through authentic connection.

Now serving as a Community Engagement and Partnerships Coordinator with Suicide prevention, Kati cultivates strategic relationships with community organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and Veteran-serving partners.  Her roles centers on expanding access to resources, strengthening collaborative networks, and ensuring Veterans receive comprehensive, coordinated support.  Grounded in integrity, cultural awareness, and a passion for advocacy, Kati remains driven by a simple mission:  to continue serving those who have served.

Location

Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Health and Wellness Center at 626 Bethany Road in DeKalb, IL 60115. The Auditorium is located on the main floor and is to the left when entering the building.

Parking is free in the parking lot in front and to the North of the building.

Our thanks to the support of Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Health and Wellness Center and Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Health Center which makes this session possible.