Soldiers returning home from war are sometimes described as “shell shocked” when they suffer from mental stresses and disorders due to the experiences they have had during their times of service. More accurately, they may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, a serious mental condition that is often referred to as the acronym PTSD. This disorder can affect anyone who has witnessed or survived a traumatic event and it may affect many residents of Oklahoma.
The symptoms of PTSD can vary, but it is not uncommon for victims of this disorder to experience upsetting flashbacks to their traumas, pervasive shame and fear and self-harm or act in self-destructive ways. The American Psychiatric Association recognizes PTSD as a significant disorder and though treatments are available, not all victims of this serious mental illness are able to overcome their suffering.
As such, it may be possible for a victim of PTSD to successfully file for and receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. On its own or in conjunction with stress disorders or anxiety, PTSD may stand as a disability that limits a person’s capacity to work for a long duration of time. Victims of this debilitating illness are encouraged to get medical help to overcome their struggles.
Crippling fear and emotional pain inflicted by memories of trauma may keep a person from being able to hold down a job. Getting the right information about disability benefits may help a victim of PTSD better understand the options for seeking assistance if they are unable to work because of their serious mental condition.