What are the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Shockingly, an estimated 23 percent of all United States war veterans suffer from some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Even more shocking are statistics taken from a recent national study that found that up to 70 percent of veterans suffering from PTSD do not ask for help or do not receive the treatment and medical attention that they need and deserve.

At Morgan & Weisbrod, we simply think that soldiers and other military personnel who have sacrificed their health to serve our country should receive our full support when they return from the battlefield – including support for the mental traumas they faced while defending our freedom. Veterans who are suffering from the ruinous effects of post-traumatic stress disorder should absolutely receive VA disability benefits that will help support both their recovery and their lives.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can be absolutely devastating. A severe anxiety disorder that develops after a person is exposed to extreme psychological trauma, PTSD can lead to problems in all facets of a person’s life, from careers to relationships. Unfortunately, soldiers who participated in active combat are at high risk for this condition. Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after a variety of wartime experiences, including witnessing the injury or death of another person during war, being involved in a roadside bombing or Humvee accident, being involved in a helicopter accident, being involved in a terrorist attack, being taken as a prisoner of war, falling victim to physical or sexual assault, or being exposed to extended periods of uncertainty or fear.

What are the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder?

• Sleep disorders, such as nightmares or insomnia
• Extreme anxiety and nervousness
• Flashbacks of specific traumas
• Chronic feelings of fear or numbness
• Hypersensitivity to stimuli and an exaggerated startle response
• Irritability, memory problems, and trouble concentrating
• Outbursts and anger issues
• Avoidance of everyday life, especially aspects of life that may trigger memories or other PTSD symptoms

If your post-traumatic stress disorder is affecting your ability to work, provide for your family, or live your everyday life, you should seek assistance from Veterans Affairs (VA) immediately. Many veterans are embarrassed or ashamed of their condition. Others may not even know that effective treatments exist. But the truth remains that all military personnel returning from a war zone deserve support and a chance for better, healthier lives.

While going through the process of securing VA disability benefits can be difficult, especially for those grappling with a debilitating mental illness, a veterans’ disability attorney can guide you through the paperwork, evaluations, and doctors’ visits. In addition, a veterans’ disability lawyer can help you appeal your claim if it was initially rejected.

At Morgan & Weisbrod, we believe that we owe our veterans respect, appreciation, and, above all, support when they return home. If you live in Texas and are seeking assistance in getting veterans’ disability benefits for your post-traumatic stress, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential meeting.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

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