What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”) is not a new diagnosis, however, the condition has only really begun to be understood by the medical community over the past few decades. Previously, PTSD was known as “shell shock,” however, in 1980, the condition was first added to the DSM-III. Those who suffer from PTSD face pervasive symptoms that interfere with and almost preclude living a normal and productive life.

What Is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that is triggered by either experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. The type of event that can lead to a PTSD diagnosis varies depending on an individual’s own circumstances. However, many cases of PTSD stem from sexual abuse or being exposed to violence, either as the victim or a witness.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?

The symptoms of PTSD can vary, depending on the individual. However, they frequently include:

• Vivid and distressing dreams,
• Intrusive thoughts such as repeated, involuntary memories,
• Flashbacks of the traumatic event,
• Avoiding reminders of the incident,
• Loss of memory surrounding the traumatic event,
• Negative thoughts and feelings,
• Irritability sometimes leading to violent outbursts,
• Reckless behavior, and
• Being overly suspicious of one’s surroundings.

How Common is PTSD?

One of the problems mental health experts face when studying PTSD is that many who suffer from the condition are undiagnosed. However, experts currently estimate that approximately 3.5 percent of all adults in the United States suffer from PTSD each year, and one in eleven people will develop PTSD at some point in their lives.

What Are the Causes of PTSD?

PTSD can be caused by any traumatic event. Of course, what precipitates a PTSD diagnosis can vary from person to person. However, those who suffer from PTSD often experience one or more of the following:

• Combat exposure,
• Sexual violence,
• Being threatened with a weapon, and
• Serious accidents.

Of course, someone doesn’t necessarily need to be the target of any of the above to develop PTSD; it is often sufficient to witness such a traumatic event.

Many service members and civilian contractors working abroad are exposed to situations that can cause PTSD. It is important for these individuals to know that help is available. Treatment for PTSD has come a long way in the past few decades and, if the triggering event was related to a civilian contractor’s employment, they may qualify for compensation that covers their medical expenses and lost wages through the Defense Base Act.

Are You a Civilian Contractor Who Developed PTSD?

If you developed PTSD in relation to your employment as a civilian contractor, reach out to the law firm of Friedman Rodman & Frank. At Friedman Rodman & Frank, our DBA attorneys have extensive experience handling all types of Defense Base Act claims, including those involving PTSD diagnoses. We are nationally recognized for our efforts at securing meaningful compensation on behalf of civilian contractors injured as a result of their employment and can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you are entitled to. To learn more, call 877-448-8585 to schedule a free consultation.