Soldiers and veterans who develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) might always seek treatment. This mental health condition that occurs after experiencing a traumatic, life-altering event frequently causes flashbacks, nightmares, symptoms of emotional avoidance, changes in behavior, and mood swings.
However, many veterans and service members on active duty resist pursuing treatment because of the stigmas attached to PTSD. Recovering from PTSD isn’t easy due to these barriers.
Barriers to Successful PTSD Treatment
There are many stigmas about people who experience symptoms of PTSD. These people are often characterized as incompetent, unpredictable, and possibly dangerous.
Because of this, veterans and active military personnel who develop PTSD are reluctant to seek treatment due to embarrassment and shame. Additionally, some fear they’ll be hospitalized for their mental health conditions.
Other barriers to treatment include:
- Fear of being seen as weak and/or not in control. Many servicemen and women worry that others will see them as weak or crazy if they “see a shrink.” Additionally, it may appear that by sharing strong emotions that have built up about combat and any traumatic event, a veteran will be viewed as out of control.
- Concerns over cost, logistics, and care. Many veterans face logistical issues getting to a facility for mental health treatment. Some must travel long distances to obtain this type of health care. Additionally, some veterans don’t trust the treatment system and seek help in the private sector because they have concerns about the type of treatment offered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). There are also long wait times to receive treatment for PTSD and other mental health issues.
- Fear of losing a job. Often, active service members delay seeking treatment for PTSD because they’re afraid of losing their jobs. One soldier can be discharged for a mental health problem, and once the word spreads, others fear it will happen to them—despite the low risk that a PTSD diagnosis will impact their career in any negative way.
- Concerns over medication and group therapy. Veterans most frequently cite medication as the primary barrier to seeking treatment. Many veterans don't want to be prescribed medication to treat their PTSD. Also, many don’t trust psychologists and therapists, and some aren’t interested in group therapy, or believe it doesn’t work and that people don’t really care.
Contact Cuddigan Law for Help With Your PTSD Claim
The experienced legal team at Cuddigan Law recognizes and respects the sacrifices veterans have made to protect this country. If you’re a veteran suffering from PTSD, we can help you obtain the disability benefits you need to care for yourself and your loved ones. It’s possible that you qualify for financial assistance from the VA.
If you need help service-connecting your mental health condition and want to file for disability benefits, contact Cuddigan Law. Our attorneys have supported veterans for years, and we’ll carefully examine your case and advise you on the best approach for receiving the maximum in disability benefits. Call us today, and you’ll speak to an intake specialist for free.
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