Can I Receive Veterans’ Disability Benefits If I Have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

In any given year, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that:

11-20% of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom Veterans suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
12% of Gulf War Veterans suffer PTSD.

Additionally, an estimated 30% of Vietnam War Veterans have suffered PTSD in their lifetimes and PTSD is a significant risk for other veterans serving in various missions around the world. It is a common and often debilitating condition that may be directly linked to military experience.

And You May Be Eligible for Veterans’ Disability Benefits Because of It

Depending on the severity of the condition, veterans suffering from PTSD can face serious everyday hurdles, from sleep disturbances and night terrors to fear of leaving the house and panic attacks. To qualify for veterans’ disability benefits, former servicemen and women must prove that there is a direct connection between their post-traumatic stress disorder and their military service. This can be done by providing:

A diagnosis of PTSD
A statement describing the stress or traumatic event that occurred during active duty
A medical opinion from a VA psychologist or psychiatrist saying that the stress or traumatic event was sufficient to cause PTSD

Active Duty Doesn’t Always Mean Combat

Even if you have not experienced combat, you could still have suffered considerable trauma during service and have documented evidence of that stressor. For example, you could have faced the following stressors during active duty but outside of actual combat:

Ongoing fear of enemy activity
Fear of terrorist activity
The serious injury or death of someone close to you
Sexual assault
Witnessing a plane crash, ship sinking, explosion, or other catastrophe

If you have combat or non-combat related PTSD, speak to a VA disability claim attorney about your case today for more information.

You Will Need to Stand Up for Your Rights

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious condition that is commonly suffered by veterans and is recognized by the VA. However, in order to recover disability benefits for your PTSD you will need to submit an application that supports your request.

You do not have to do this alone.

Our experienced veterans’ disability lawyers would be pleased to help you get the benefits you deserve. Please call us today or contact us through this website for more information.