Can I Qualify for VA Disability Because Of PTSD from Afghanistan?
Posted by Gregory M. Rada | December 13, 2019 | Disability Compensation
More than two million Americans have served in Afghanistan and Iraq since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. These are soldiers who have often been in combat, having seen fellow soldiers killed or injured, or have been in danger themselves at times. Many of these soldiers have returned home to the U.S. suffering from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you suffer from PTSD, it can affect your ability to function. If you cannot perform your regular activities of daily living, you cannot work and earn a living. There are many disabling symptoms that can accompany PTSD, such as irritability, anger, difficulty breathing, chest pain, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, and digestive issues.
You may find yourself withdrawing socially, suffering severe bouts of anxiety and depression, and too jittery to stay focused. Some veterans with PTSD turn to drugs and alcohol. If you suspect you have PTSD, you should see a physician at the Veterans Administration (VA). If you receive a PTSD diagnosis, you may qualify for disability benefits from the VA.
Getting The Help You Need
PTSD can be devastating to your family, as well as to you. You need to try and seek the medical help you need to help address your symptoms and to help you live a better life. Filing a VA disability claim and being approved for benefits can be challenging. You will need to make sure you have the supporting documentation from a VA physician to support your claim and to show that you suffer from symptoms of PTSD.
Your rating for PTSD is based on the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms are well-controlled, then you may have a lower rating, such as 10 percent, but if medication isn’t properly controlling your symptoms, your rating could be much higher, up to 100 percent. If you suffer from PTSD because of your service in Afghanistan or elsewhere, consult with Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law, about pursuing a VA disability claim.
