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December 9, 2010 - The amount of veterans who returned, and are still returning, from Iraq and Afghanistan with mental conditions is shocking. It is not a stretch to say these numbers took many people by surprise. These numbers do not even include those veterans who do not report to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that they have mental health issues. The number of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is only going to continue to rise.
The numbers, however, must be charted and tracked. This is the only way the VA can ensure the proper health and support services are available to the veterans in need. There are very common characteristics of PTSD that may prevent veterans from seeking help:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can compound the effects of PTSD in veterans, especially the inability to focus and concentrate. Screening veterans for PTSD is standard practice when they visit VA medical centers because many veterans may not realize they are suffering from the disorder. The numbers are reflective of what is going on with veterans. In 2008, the VA treated 134,000 veterans for PTSD, and that number jumped to 143,530 in 2009.
There are numerous reasons why the number of veterans suffering from PTSD will continue to rise. Most returning veterans are under 25-years-old and simply do not seek out counseling for numerous reasons, so their numbers are never reported. They may, however, seek help in the future, which will raise future numbers. It is also possible for those veterans who believe they have been "cured" from their PTSD to have relapses. Further, under 10% of veterans diagnosed with PTSD complete their recommended course of treatment. This usually means they will return for treatment in the future.
Whatever the reason, PTSD is not going away among veterans. The VA must recognize the amount and type of help they offer must be able to be increased rapidly, to keep pace with veterans needing help.
Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.
At LaVan and Neidenberg, we are determined to secure veterans their rightful disability compensation and disability rating. We wrote this book for you! In it you will find valuable tips on how to navigate the claims process and avoid common pitfalls. Request your FREE copy today!
Or, complete our short contact form or call us directly at 1.888.234.5758 to schedule your FREE case evaluation.
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