Approximately 8 million people in the United States suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. This troubling anxiety psychiatric disorder can be caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD is common in veterans, as well as victims of natural disasters, accidents, sexual assault and other trauma.
In an effort to raise awareness of this condition, its symptoms and treatment options, the National Center for PTSD has assigned June as PTSD Awareness Month.
Symptoms of a Troubling Anxiety Disorder
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition marked by symptoms that can include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares about the event
- Emotional apathy
- Feeling of hopelessness
- Memory problems
- Irritability or anger
- Difficulty sleeping
- Hallucinations
Because the symptoms of this disorder depend on the trauma experienced and the person, symptoms outside of this list may be experienced with PTSD. The severity of symptoms may also vary depending on the situation.
As with any mental health disorder, the experience depends on the person. A doctor will be able to assess your symptoms and determine if they are related to PTSD.
PTSD and Social Security Disability
Due to the nature of the symptoms and their ability to sometimes prevent an individual from living a normal life, the Social Security Administration may approve PTSD Social Security Disability benefits.
PTSD Social Security Disability benefits are an important part of helping individuals live with and overcome this psychiatric disorder.
Even if a case is not severe enough to meet the Blue Book criteria for benefits, it may be approved as a medical vocational allowance. These allowances allow those who cannot work due to their PTSD to receive some form of income.
Applying for PTSD Social Security Disability Benefits
PTSD sufferers qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if they meet the Blue Book requirements for “Anxiety Disorders.” Requirements of both paragraph A and either B or C must be met. A disability attorney can help you with these requirements.
Medical records should include a detailed description of the PTSD symptoms you experience. The nature, frequency and duration of these symptoms are important for their case. Factors that cause or worsen the symptoms should also be included. Severe PTSD and its symptoms are considered a disability and are eligible for SSDI benefits with proper documentation.
If you suffer PTSD and have been denied Social Security Disability benefits or you need help filing your claim, contact the The Law Offices Of M. Stanley Whitehead. M. Stanley Whitehead has more than two decades of experience representing clients in their disability cases. Give us a call at 713-993-7311 or fill out our contact form online to get the benefits you deserve.
