Can You Qualify for DBA Benefits for a PTSD Diagnosis?

Over the past two decades, private contractors have been deployed worldwide. In addition to supporting foreign governments, many contractors support U.S. and allied forces, non-governmental organizations, and private businesses. These contractors provide maintenance, transportation, logistical support, communications, and construction services. At one point during the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, contractors outnumbered U.S troops.

While these contractors are not supposed to engage in active combat, the inherent nature of their positions leads to exposure to the same stressors as combat service members. The RAND Corporation surveyed sample contractors exposed to a conflict theater. The survey came in response to the growing concern of post-traumatic stress disorder amongst private contractors.

The online survey collected demographic information and details about the survey takers’ deployment experience. The study’s goal was to articulate the health and well-being of private military contractors and address frequently occurring mental health issues. The study revealed some critical findings of the differences among contractors and the rate and severity of psychological and physical health conditions. The study found that contractors’ experiences vastly differ with their country of citizenship and specialty. Further, nearly twenty-five percent of surveyed contractors screen for PTSD, 18 percent for depression, and almost 50 percent for alcohol misuse. Finally, it is clear that many U.S. contractors experience barriers to treatment for their mental health conditions.

DBA Compensation for PTSD

Under certain circumstances, The Department of Labor accepts PTSD as an occupational disease. Occupational diseases refer to those that arise from the conditions of an employee’s work. Moreover, under the Longshore and Harbor Workers Compensation Act, contractors who developed PTSD due to their occupation may file for workers’ compensation.

Notwithstanding the right to compensation for PTSD, many insurance carriers deny claims for this condition. However, PTSD can bring about a myriad of debilitating symptoms, such as nightmares, depression, alcohol and drug abuse, and hypervigilance. The severity and frequency of these symptoms can vary amongst contractors. PTSD claimants should consult with an experienced DBA attorney to discuss the best way to recover compensation for their occupation injuries and illnesses.

Contact an Experienced PTSD Attorney

If you have developed PTSD because of your work as a private contractor for the U.S., contact the lawyers at Friedman Rodman & Frank. The Defense Base Act attorneys at our office handle claims for workers who suffered injuries overseas in areas such as Iraq and Afghanistan. We maintain an active practice handling DBA, Jones Act, and Longshore Act claims. Those wondering if their occupational injury qualifies under the DBA should contact our firm to discuss their rights and remedies. Contact our office at 877-448-8585 for a free initial consultation with an experienced attorney on our team.