There are quite a few people who seem to believe that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that only impacts military veterans who see active duty. There are absolutely many veterans who come home with PTSD. However, that doesn’t mean that they are the only ones who struggle with this debilitating condition.
PTSD can occur for a wide range of reasons, including both seeing or experiencing something violent. Those who witness horrific accidents or acts of senseless violence such as terrorist attacks or shootings may develop PTSD, as can those who are the victims of violent crimes or abuse.
Although therapy can help people control post-traumatic stress disorder, there is no real cure for the condition. Medication can’t undo the way that trauma impacts your brain itself. People with PTSD can work to control their symptoms, but they will likely continue to endure issues for years, if not the rest of their lives.
PTSD can be a debilitating condition
One of the most misunderstood issues with PTSD is the way that environmental factors can trigger intense emotional reactions in people. Someone who is usually happy and upbeat can quickly devolve into an angry, frightened or frenetic spiral of emotion when something in their environment sets off their PTSD. PTSD can impact mood, personality and even memory.
Someone who is typically calm and rational may become emotional and seem out of control after something triggers their PTSD. They may experience extreme fear, anxiety or anger, and it can take days to get back to a stable place afterward.
It’s not always possible to avoid environmental triggers
The exact triggers can vary. Loud noises are a common issue, as are abrupt movements or intense social interactions. Even certain smells or hairstyles could cause some people to have intense or even violent emotional reactions. For those who wind up traumatized because of something that happened at work, they may not be able to continue working, in some cases.
Because of the potential instability that PTSD can cause, it is difficult for people to return to a workplace with potential triggers. Some individuals simply won’t be able to work at all. There may be an option for Social Security Disability benefits, as well as other compensation depending on the circumstances that led to developing PTSD.
An attorney can help you prove you need benefits
Documenting mental health conditions can be more difficult than you might imagine. Particularly with PTSD, which only produces symptoms under certain circumstances, it can be difficult to conclusively prove that the condition prevents you from working.
Those who need Social Security Disability benefits because of a mental health condition like PTSD can improve their chances of successfully navigating the application process for benefits by working with an experienced disability attorney in Los Angeles.
