Veterans Benefits and PTSD

We hear a lot of talk as of late about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder of PTSD. But what exactly is it, do I have it and do I qualify for VA benefits? In a nutshell PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can occur following the experience or witnessing of life-threatening events such as military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or physical or sexual assault in adult or childhood. People who suffer from PTSD often relive the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, have difficulty sleeping, and feel detached or estranged, and these symptoms can be severe enough and last long enough to significantly impair the person’s daily life.

To be diagnosed with PTSD, a person must have all of the following for at least 1 month:

• At least one re-experiencing symptom. (such as flashbacks or bad dreams)

• At least three avoidance symptoms. (such as staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the experience or feeling emotionally numb)

• At least two hyperarousal symptoms. (such as being easily startled, feeling tense or “on edge” or having difficulty sleeping, and/or having angry outbursts)

The United States provides a wide range of benefits for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which was incurred in, or aggravated by, their military service. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide benefits to veterans who the VA has determined suffer from PTSD, which developed during, or as a result of, their military service. These benefits not only include tax-free cash payments but can also include free or low-cost mental health treatment and other healthcare; vocational rehabilitation services; employment assistance; independent living support, and more.

If you feel you suffer from service-related PTSD or have been diagnosed with service-related PTSD contact my office for a free consultation. Dean A. Reed www.dreedlaw.com