This article explains two ways to file for PTSD disability benefits from
the Social SecurityAdministraiton. It gives the reader specific
information about documents required and how SSA determines an applicant’s
eligibility for disability. The article covers F’TSD from military service
and other traumatic events.

Criteria used to assess F’TSD disability claims consider
symptoms and duration of physical and psychological
impairment. The event that triggered the anxiety disorder
also plays a part in diagnosis, treatment and eligibility
for benefits
Ail these factors must be examined before a person
suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can
receive disability payments. A person who does not qualify
for typically disability benefits might be eligible for
medical-vocational allowances if the ability to function in
the workplace is diminished.
PTSD was first identified in war veterans who faced
life-threatening experiences. During WWI, lingering stress
reactions were referred to as “shell shock.” Later, the
term “combat fatigue” became popular to describe
veterans plagued by re-occurring trauma from their military
service. PTSD symptoms might arise from the threat of
personal iniury or death, or experiencing threats to
others Overtime, psychologists determined PTSD might
occur from other traumatic events outside of war.
Surviving a natural disaster, violent assault, or accident
might provoke severe reactions that interfere A4th a
person’s ability to cope. The victim might relive the
event through images, thoughts, or dreams Flashbacks of
the experience commonly occur, which could send the victim
into a state of panic or anxiety. For example, a person who
lives through a major earthquake might be easily startled
by the rumbling of a large truck passing by. Recognizing
the signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorðer
defines the first step before filing a claim for disability
benefits.
People exposed to traumatic events react differently to the
ordeal, but some signs, such as trouble sleeping and
depression occur commonly. Once a medical health
professional diagnoses PTSD, a claim for dibility
benefits can be filed.
These victims typically avoid activities they previously
enjoyed. Rape victims might become reclusive and avoid
going out after dark. Accident victims could stop driving
or riding in automobiles. People suffering from PTSD
commonly shun any activity that triggers unpleasant
memories of traumatic events in an effort protect
themselves from the physiological changes sparked by fear.