As military conflicts continue to persist, many veterans are being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This mental health condition can be debilitating and affect your everyday life.

Are you a veteran struggling with PTSD? Contact the attorneys at Rob Levine & Associates who have years of experience helping hundreds of veterans with PTSD claims.

What Is PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a life-altering mental health condition affecting those who have experienced a traumatic event. The disorder makes it difficult an individual to come to terms with the emotional aspects of the traumatic event. The symptoms, severity, and longevity of PTSD may vary from person to person. In general, those with PTSD may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Irritability
• Feeling numb or withdrawn
• Hypervigilance
• Difficulty concentrating
• Alcohol or drug problems
• Trouble holding a job
• Relationship problems
• Depression or anxiety
• Physical symptoms such as chest pain

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, to be diagnosed with PTSD, the following symptoms must persist for a minimum of one month:

• At least one re-experiencing symptom. These can include flashbacks, nightmares, or frightening thoughts.

• At least one avoidance symptom. These can include avoiding places, events, or objects that remind the person of the event. Avoidance symptoms can also include pushing away thoughts or feelings associated with the traumatic event.

• At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms. These include being easily startled, feeling “on edge,” trouble sleeping, or angry outbursts.

• At least two cognition and mood symptoms. These include trouble recalling aspects of the traumatic event, negative thoughts, feelings of guilt or blame, or loss of interest in normal activities.

PTSD in Veterans

Although PTSD can happen to anyone, it is particularly common among veterans. In general, 17% of veterans who served in active combat report having symptoms associated with PTSD. Veterans are at greater risk depending on where and when they served.

• 11-20% of veterans who served as part of the Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) experience PTSD.

• Out of the veterans that served in the Gulf War (Desert Storm), 12% reported PTSD symptoms.

• 15% of those who served in the Vietnam War have received diagnoses of PTSD.

PTSD can be a difficult condition to cope with. As a veteran, we hope to ease the difficulty of dealing with PTSD by ensuring that you receive your disability benefits. Reach out to our experienced team at Rob Levine & Associates for a free case evaluation, so you can get the compensation that you deserve.