Millions of Americans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – A mental health condition that can occur after witnessing or experiencing a life-threatening or terrifying event. You may have been in military combat, survived a natural disaster, experienced a terrorist situation, been involved in a serious accident, or been a victim of physical or sexual abuse. People exposed to these types of events may experience recurring nightmares, have trouble sleeping or concentrating, have a difficult time coping and adjusting, or be unable to work.
According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately seven percent of Americans will have PTSD at some point in their lives. And if you’re a veteran or someone suffering from PTSD, you may wonder if there’s help available and where to get it.
There Is Help for PTSD
To help returning veterans and others suffering from severe emotional distress, Congress designated June 27 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day. Organizations such as the National Center for PTSD and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offer many free resources to raise awareness of PTSD and to promote available treatments. Here is some important information about PTSD that could be helpful to you or any veteran who is suffering from this condition:
- You can get immediate help. If someone you love is talking about suicide or feels cut off from society, or if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, the VA offers options for crisis intervention for veterans as well as civilians.Factual information is available. The VA’s website offers information on how to identify the symptoms of PTSD, how to get the condition diagnosed, and how to treat and overcome PTSD symptoms.
- You have options. Many people who suffer from PTSD are afraid or unwilling to seek treatment because they do not want to revisit their trauma. Many online help groups are available (such as AboutFace) that provide support for veterans and their family members and encourage them to discuss their experiences with others who have faced similar trauma.
- Continuing support is available. Managing PTSD is an ongoing process, and even those who have entered or undergone treatment may need continuing support. The VA offers online self-help guides and suggestions for patients who have recently entered or ended treatment; information on managing stress and other tips for families and caregivers; and information about disability compensation for veterans with PTSD.
Getting Help for PTSD Through Disability Benefits
If you’re a veteran and have been diagnosed with PTSD, it’s easier now for you to get approved for disability benefits for this condition. If you suffer from distress that disrupts your life and interferes with your daily activities or ability to work, contact us. We can help you file an application for VA disability to get you the maximum compensation for the suffering you experience as a result of PTSD. Contact our disability attorneys at 402-933-5405, or leave us a comment to discuss a possible PTSD claim.
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