Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Those in the military may witness death, injury, combat, or be a victim of sexual assault. Any of these events can cause PTSD. Signs of PTSD may occur within three months of the trauma or event, but for some, symptoms may not occur until long after their deployment ends.
Common Symptoms of PTSD
Having PTSD can significantly impact a person’s life, causing them to avoid certain people or places. A veteran may feel shame or embarrassment and may be hesitant to seek help for the condition. Various treatments can help manage the symptoms of PTSD, including therapy and medication. The symptoms of PTSD may include the following:
- Flashbacks or nightmares of the trauma
- Difficulty sleeping
- Poor concentration
- Avoidance of anything that reminds them of the trauma
- Aggressive behavior
- Irritability or nervousness
- Problems with intimacy
The symptoms of PTSD can vary from person to person. Some people begin to experience signs of PTSD within three months of the trauma, while others may not begin to have symptoms until years later. It is not uncommon for veterans to experience signs of PTSD as they get older. When PTSD symptoms worsen or develop later in life, it can be due to several factors, such as:
Retirement
Once you retire, you may have more time to think about past events or trauma since you are not distracted by work or other commitments.
Medical Condition
As a person ages, they may experience various medical problems that can cause stress and increase symptoms of PTSD.
Current Events
Seeing events on television or on the news can trigger memories of a traumatic experience.
Substance Abuse
If stress was dealt with by using a substance such as alcohol or drugs and you stop using those substances, symptoms of PTSD can surface or worsen.
Lack of Support
Not having positive support from those closest to you can cause PTSD to develop. If you are in an environment where others do not understand what you have seen or experienced, it can cause your condition to worsen since you lack the support you may need.
Our Veterans' Appeals Attorneys Can Assist
If you or a loved one is a veteran experiencing signs of PTSD after returning from deployment, and you need help filing for VA disability benefits, contact the office of Sean Kendall, Attorney-at-Law, for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you with the appeal process for any disputes you may have with a claim determination and protect your legal rights so you can get the benefits you deserve. Call us today at 877-629-1712 to find out more.
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