PTSD

The experience of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often described in terms of the symptoms one experiences. For example, PTSD symptoms may include flashbacks (or sudden, unwanted memories) of an unpleasant experience, extreme anger, paranoia, and shame. In this article, we discuss PTSD symptoms, how they may provide some short-term benefit, how they may negatively impact one’s well-being, and ways to replace unhelpful symptoms with more positive thoughts and behaviors.

Reaching out for care for your psychological health is an important, positive step in your military career. When seeking a role that requires a national security clearance, you will be instructed to fill out the Standard Form 86 (SF86), “Questionnaire for National Security Positions.” [PDF 7.6MB] The federal government uses information from this form to conduct background checks and evaluate individuals who are:

It is important to remember that in any city or town, mass shootings are rare, even if they are highly visible occurrences that receive national attention.Most people will never experience one directly. However, when they do happen they are shocking and can be difficult to cope with. This is because they feel random and happen in places you consider safe like schools, offices, malls, movie theaters, restaurants—even military installations.

Making a plan to talk with a health care provider about your psychological health concerns is an important step toward improving your overall health. If you have been through trauma or other challenges, it may be hard to talk about your experiences. A health care provider can help you understand your feelings and maintain your mental fitness. This article offers useful tips to help you choose a provider, prepare for your first appointment and make the most of your visit.

You may have traumatic experiences during your military career. These can happen on deployment, in training or even at home. When warriors experience trauma, on or off the battlefield, they often have periods of anger, trouble sleeping, nightmares, intrusive memories, sadness and more. If these concerns continue for more than one month, they may be signs of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you go through a traumatic event, you are likely to recover. In some cases you may experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Treatment can help you cope with and overcome your symptoms.

If, however, you are disabled by PTSD because of your service, you are eligible for disability benefits. On top of the care you get through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), you can get financial compensation for your PTSD. This can offset financial strain and help you focus on overcoming your symptoms.