Did you know that more than nine million veterans are over 65 years of age? Veterans are important members of our society; they protect the country in peace time, and in war.
Sadly, though, they themselves are not always protected. Among veterans, PTSD, or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, is the number one cause of unemployment and homelessness alike. If you, or someone you know, requires Post Traumatic Stress Disorder help, there are options. Here are three things you should know about the legal road ahead of you.
1. What You Should Know about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Military
One thing to keep in mind regarding PTSD: you are not alone. In fact, between 11% and 20% of veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars suffer from PTSD. It is recognized as an anxiety disorder, and symptoms include, but are not limited to, anger, insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, and a numbing of emotions. On a positive note, many people do get better with proper care and rehabilitation. Getting that care, however, sometimes becomes a matter of legal dispute.
2. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Help
Did you know that the VA provides counseling programs, including specialized programs for those who have survived military sexual trauma? These programs can be infinitely helpful for those who suffer. You can apply for disability benefits owing to PTSD by visiting, phoning, or applying online to your VA office. This, of course, is where things might go wrong; if the VA denies the claim, veterans are often left with little recourse or understanding of what they can do. This is the stage where some older veterans suffering from PTSD end up homeless.
3. Legal Help for Veterans Denied Disability Benefits
Over the past few years, the percentage of approved claims has gone up; in 2012, a total of 73% of claims not related to sexual trauma were approved (and 57% for sexual trauma related PTSD claims). If your claim is denied for disability benefits, there can be several advantages to contacting a veterans lawyer. An important fact to be aware of: the DVA has an error rate when evaluating claims of at least 14%. Lawyers can help advocate for you, and navigate through often complicated legal jargon and paperwork.
Do you know someone who needs Post Traumatic Stress Disorder help?
