In recent years, there has been greater recognition of post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly referred to as PTSD. Many veterans returning from overseas conflicts experience PTSD, but the condition is not limited to former military. PTSD may occur following a significant injury or psychological shock and results in persistent mental or emotional distress. According to the Sidran Traumatic Stress Institute, 20 percent of Americans will cope with PTSD in their lifetime with 13 million people experiencing it at any given time.

If you have experienced a severe injury or traumatic event in your life, the effects of PTSD are very real and may affect your ability to work. Despite increased awareness of PTSD, though, disability claims resulting from that condition are often complex and difficult to prove.

Recognizing who is affected

In addition to military veterans, victims of abuse, car accidents, sexual assault and other violent crimes are at-risk of experiencing PTSD. The side effects of PTSD include flashbacks, avoidance, nightmares and negative thinking. These side effects are better understood today than in the past. However, what makes these cases particularly tricky when considering long-term disability claims is that the symptoms often appear much later than the triggering event.

According to the Mayo Clinic, PTSD symptoms may manifest as soon as a month after the event. For others, however, symptoms may not emerge until years later, which can make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. Symptoms may last for days, weeks or years and largely depend on a person’s individual ability to cope and the effectiveness of treatment.

How long-term disability benefits can help

Utilizing your individual disability insurance or employer-provided long-term disability benefits may give you the time and resources necessary to adequately diagnose and treat your individual symptoms of PTSD. Because of the sensitivity required to address PTSD, it is important that you receive appropriate and adequate treatment from a qualified and experienced behavioral health care professional.

If you experience difficulty with your claim, including denial of your claim for disability benefits, you should immediately contact a disability benefit attorney about your case. PTSD is a debilitating condition that may dramatically affect your life in unseen ways. You deserve the utmost care and attention to your case and an experienced attorney can help you obtain the benefits you need.

Related Articles

ERISA-Governed vs. Non-ERISA Group Benefits: Key Differences and Why They Matter

ERISA-Governed vs. Non-ERISA Group Benefits: Key Differences and Why They Matter

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) affects millions of Americans with employer-sponsored benefits, but most don’t know until a claim is denied. ERISA is an acronym for the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, a law passed by Congress in 1974. The primary intent behind ERISA was to protect employees’ retirement benefits. [..]

ERISA Venue Provisions: Where Can You File Your Benefits Lawsuit?

ERISA Venue Provisions: Where Can You File Your Benefits Lawsuit?

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) governs private sector employee benefits plans, including retirement, disability, and health plans. One of the key aspects of ERISA litigation is the question of venue — where participants or beneficiaries file their lawsuits when they believe their plan rights are violated. […]

How to File a Winning ERISA Claim

How to File a Winning ERISA Claim

If you have an employment-related benefit claim, ERISA likely applies to your claim. ERISA claims involve complex rules and strict deadlines that can be challenging and challenging to navigate. […]

Disability Ruling Guides On Cases With Uncertain Causation

Disability Ruling Guides On Cases With Uncertain Causation

Deciding disability benefit claims correctly can often pose a challenge for both claimants and insurers. Since disability is dependent on functional restrictions and not just on a diagnosis, determining a claimant’s level of functionality with respect to basic activities such as sitting, standing and walking can be difficult, especially when disability results from symptoms such as pain. […]