What do you think of people claiming disability for PTSD without ever deploying?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 15:11:29 -0500

Service members are claiming disability for PTSD without even deploying and actually getting it. Why are top leaders letting this happen? What do you think?

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 3:12 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 15:12:48 -0500

I think it has to be case by case, example soldiers training crash in helicopter causes life long PTSD of flying.

Response by LT Jessica Kellogg made Jan 30 at 2014 3:14 PM

LT Jessica Kellogg — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 15:14:29 -0500

There are other causes for PTSD than combat; it's not my place to judge their condition.<div>I'd rather people seek the help they need than to be afraid of the stigma. </div>

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jan 30 at 2014 3:16 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 15:16:39 -0500

Just playing devil's advocate, let's say I've never deployed. Now, while performing PMCS in the motor pool, I get gang raped by a bunch of personnel from a neighboring unit. That might be a bit traumatic don't you think? My point is that deployment and PTSD are not necessarily inclusive or exclusive. Each case must be examined on it's own merits.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 3:21 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 15:21:37 -0500

In total agreement. It should be case by case but just going through IET, not making it and claiming PTSD, that isn't right.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jan 30 at 2014 6:14 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 18:14:32 -0500

This is a tough situation to apply left and right limits to, since everyone's VA claim is unique and everyone's military/personal experiences are uniquely challenging for them and how much stress they can handle.  I don't necessarily see this as a leadership problem, since you'd probably rather have a "false positive" rating than the worse scenario...where you don't take the person seriously and so they don't get the help they need, and then they self-medicate or even worse.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2014 6:58 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 18:58:43 -0500

<div>tl;dr - disability compensation for service related issues does invite people to claim for whatever they can claim and we're allowing it because doing otherwise could shut out a lot of legitimate complaints.</div><div><br></div>Here's the fun thing about PTSD:  It is a well-established (if often debated) condition that can be classified as a stress reaction caused by a traumatic event.  It's a lot more common among the general populace than public opinion makes it seem.  Seeing as the event's traumatic nature depends on the individual experiencing it, some people can actually end up psychologically broken by the stresses of BCT & AIT.  The adjudication as to whether the condition is service related and thereby covered by the VA is up to the VA.<br><br>Funnily enough, I think BCT had more of an impact on me than deployment.  I stopped flinching at slamming doors after three months back in country; yet, I still eat almost everything I can with a spoon because my DS insisted we were all too stupid to be trusted with a fork.<br><div><br></div><div>Don't get me wrong, I think there's plenty of people gaming the system on a lot of issues.  I've personally known people who got out on what were trumped up claims of being medically unfit that caused them no disability in the civilian world and allowed them to preform their PMOS indefinitely according to their own statements.  However, it is not the fault of the individuals who exploit the system that the system is broken.  In the same vein, it is not the extreme coupon-ers who made it so you could buy gallons of toothpaste for a total of $2; they're just exploiting flaws as is in their self-interest.</div>

Response by SGT Shon D. Hill made Apr 23 at 2014 9:06 AM

SGT Shon D. Hill — Wed, 23 Apr 2014 09:06:40 -0400

I'm 70% connected for PTSD from combat, but I do feel there are plenty of other viable causes, especially Sexual trauma victims. There are always those who scam the system, I just have faith it will all become right in the end. Great topic!

Response by SSG Kali Montero made May 25 at 2014 8:33 PM

SSG Kali Montero — Sun, 25 May 2014 20:33:09 -0400

I see that all the time here in Florida. I see incoming vets talking to each other about how to beat the system. They clog the system hence the long waiting periods. I too am 100% PTSD & 80% Agent Orange. When I got out in 1969 there was no help for us. I ended up in the psychiatric ward for several days trying to commit suicide from the demons that had possessed me. The Doctor said he saw vets come in with the same symptoms but the they had no classification for it at the time. I stuffed everything and went on with my life through 4 marriages and countless jobs. It wasn't till 43 yrs later 2011 that my 5th wife told me to go in to the VA. I couldn't remember anything except my unit from my DD214. I was confirmed with PTSD and took till 2013 when I received my current ratings. I still suffer from my demons but at least I have help.

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 16 at 2014 10:37 PM

SPC David S. — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 22:37:58 -0400

Training mission at Camp Shelby. Huey hit a pine tree and slammed hard from about 30'. One guy jacked up his backed. He never deployed, but should he be denied disability? An injury is an injury whether visible or not and deployed or not.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2014 7:15 AM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 07:15:07 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member. If it is true that too many disability claims are not authentic, I wonder whether disability claims should be backed up with fMRI or polygraph examination negative for deception findings? Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by 1SG Mark Colomb made Sep 18 at 2014 2:04 PM

1SG Mark Colomb — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 14:04:13 -0400

SSG Hilbert, I have to echo several of the other comments. PTSD is not a combat illness or injury. It is the exposure to traumatic events. What about the medics working in emergency rooms and as EMS crews at posts world-wide? What about MP's who are often the first to respond to fatal traffic crashes, suicides, aggravated assaults, attempted murders, child abuse cases.

As for the senior leadership letting this happen, they are caught between a rock and a hard place. The symptoms are so loosely defined by the professional psychological community they would be remiss not to err to the benefit of the individual Soldier.

Response by Cpl Chris Rice made Sep 18 at 2014 3:29 PM

Cpl Chris Rice — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 15:29:27 -0400

I think the main issue should be insuring that we have qualified mental health professionals making these determinations, and not have it done through legislation and regulation. When you ask why are out leaders letting this happen, I hope the answer is because it is not their area of expertise, and they have deferred to an expert. It also comes down to how many true PTSD cases do you want to screw to get the fraudulent ones? I ask this because it is pretty much been the case that when the government tries to push out fraud they wind up hurting more good people than catching bad people.

Quick note! The VA offers facilities called Vet Centers, that deal exclusively with Combat Veterans, Victims of Military Sexual Trauma, and Bereavement. It is true that PTSD comes from non-combat sources as well. I worked at one of these facilities for a time, and if you are looking for help these facilities are smaller, and quicker on getting you in. Though they are counselors, not health care providers, so there are no medications. The one that I worked at every counselor was a Vet themselves, and was certified with Master's Degrees and what not; it was real help.

Response by SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS made Oct 12 at 2014 8:57 AM

SFC Dr. Joseph Finck, BS, MA, DSS — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 08:57:27 -0400

There are a number of stresses which may result in PTSD or acute stress disorder. During research for my Masters Degree thesis, I discovered persons developed quantifiable PTSD from observing the 9/11 attacks on television.

From a societal standpoint. people have changed. My Dad, a WW II veteran, rarely spoke of his experiences during the Great Depression and WW II, but from direct exposure I know he had nightmares and other issues. Todays society is much more fragile than previous. A lack of experiences from riding your bicycle to the market and barely avoiding being hit by a car, to playing in the playground, falling, and breaking an arm has manifested itself into a society whose greatest stress seems to be the internet going down. Thusly, when exposed to the stress of realistic training, preparation for deployment, physical training, or a real world incident of assault, witnessing assault, being sexually assaulted or raped, or being an outcry witness to a sexual assault or rape PTSD may occur.

As has been pointed out by others, each situation is different and varies, but don't forget a disability may be rated if it is "permanently aggravated" by military service.

Too many variables to make an intelligent judgment of persons being rated for PTSD and not serving in combat, but since the medical professionals are exposed to the latest and greatest of the diagnostic tools in the DSM V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Version V (DSM V) and the volume of patients they evaluate and treat with PTSD, I surmise their diagnosis is valid and the persons diagnosed served and consequently deserve any benefit earned.

Thank you,

SFC Joseph M. Finck USA (Ret)

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2014 1:24 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 01:24:58 -0500

As a healthcare professional, I see and diagnose PTSD without my patient seeing combat. Question for you, do you think PTSD comes only feom combat? How about a training event where someone is killed? How about saving a family from a burning car? How about being in a car accident where someone is seriously injured or killed? PTSD can come from a hazing event, a rape, a Sexual assualt, domestic abuse, Physical Abuse...so what I am saying is some our training can cause PTSD-type symptoms.

Okay now with that said, do I think it's being abused? That might have been a better question. Yes, I do.

I'll share a story, a close friend of mind, much younger than me, returned from OEF/OIF and when he was doing his exit interview (by a civilian) he was asked if he has PTSD? He said, I don't know. The civilian said if you tell me that you seen combat I'll diagnose you with PTSD. No questionnairre. Which is really sad, because now the VA has him on over 6 prescriptions, for which I don't think he needs. He has some anxiety, so maybe some anti-anxiety meds, but that's about it. The VA is enabling a bunch of somewhat healthy men to be lazy, non-working, non-contributing members to society.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2014 1:35 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 01:35:39 -0500

You should do a little research on what PTSD is and how people present. I have a patient that has been in 4 MVAs in 18 months. 3 of the accidents included her kids. In all of the Accidents she feared for her life. She clearly has PTSD with mTBI so your question seems quite narrow minded and excludes everyone that hasn't deployed....

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2014 1:43 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 01:43:58 -0500

Top leaders do not make decisions regarding medical diagnosis, your doctor does. Imagine if your top leaders made decisions regarding your healthcare...what a mess that would be.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2014 3:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 03:22:09 -0500

I know civilians who never served a day in their lives with PTSD, SFC Private RallyPoint Member.

Psychiatrist and psychologists are the ones who must determine someone's eligibility. As you can see, you received a few responses suggesting that someone may fit the description in your question and could possibly feel wrongfully accused and get offended (be it a leader or even an undeployed SM).

I do understand your line of questioning, however; seeing that you tagged keywords like "Benefits" and "Values". That being said: it's not the "leadership's" decision. Benefits are vetted through the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). I also think many would agree that it is quiet absurd to lie about a condition in order to receive benefits; it shows a complete lack of integrity as you implied. I'm sure you've heard of the old "lower back" injury claim.

I would also like to give professionals (Psychiatrist and Psychologists) the benefit of doubt and hope they are well trained and spent years till the Ph.D. I respect their role; not all leaders are trained, educated, and experienced SME in these matters. But who is there to put an end to false claims? That is the ultimate question, brother. Our only job as leaders in this case is to instill values.

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Mar 29 at 2015 11:12 AM

SFC Collin McMillion — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 11:12:46 -0400

I realize there are a lot of things that they say can cause PTSD, but while getting the boot for PTSD and trying to stay in service, I had a lot ask me how and what to do to get out on PTSD and after getting out I was asked a lot about how to claim PTSD. Too many looking for an easy ride. If they actually had it and had to live with it everyday of their life, they would gladly give back the money to get rid of it.

Response by SPC Donald Tribble made Mar 29 at 2015 11:13 AM

SPC Donald Tribble — Sun, 29 Mar 2015 11:13:46 -0400

It depends on what the cause of the PTSD is. Even though I was in the peacetime Army as a Medic I saw some pretty nasty stuff from training accidents or just regular motor vehicle accidents on Post. All it takes is being involved in/witnessing a traumatic event. Almost 30 years later I still vividly remember several incidents at Fort Meade and Camp Bullis that I was involved in.

Response by SSgt Gregory Guina made Apr 10 at 2015 12:21 AM

SSgt Gregory Guina — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 00:21:21 -0400

I am sure I won't be the only one that is going to say this but a deployment is not required for PTSD. All that is required is a traumatic event. It could be a car wreck, the loss of a child, an assault (sexual or not). I would have to think that medical personnel are trained to determine if in fact there is PTSD or not as I am not trained in the medical professions ( and I don't think a Counterintelligence Special Agent is either but correct me if I am wrong.)

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 9:59 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 09:59:23 -0400

PTSD exists outside the army. Rape victims, Trauma victims, Individuals involved in high intensity crimes, etc. It's not just a military problem. And in order to receive disability they have to be mentally evaluated by a psychiatrist who would make the diagnosis of PTSD.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2015 10:10 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 12 Apr 2015 10:10:41 -0400

What I am really refers to is people playing the system and getting benefits for something that happened prior to entering the service.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 11:03 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 23:03:05 -0400

PTSD stands for 'Post Traumatic Stress Disorder', nowhere in that does it say anything about it being a deployment caused event, it is the result of an extremely STRESSFUL and TRAUMATIC event that has a lasting effect on the individual. Assuming the individual has experienced a traumatic life event and the individual has gone through the proper channels to get help, I don't see a problem with it.

However, I do get a bit irked when service members claim PTSD for erroneous things just to boost their disability claim and get sympathy from other soldiers/civilians. I've seen it done plenty of times in the last few years.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 13 at 2015 11:27 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Apr 2015 23:27:35 -0400

Many things cause ptsd besides just deploying. Whether it be sexual assault orange abuse somehow..maybe in a training event their truck rolled and someone died. Maybe on their off time they got jumped because soldiers are targets..I don't condone it as long as it's not being used as a ploy to gain more benefits.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 22 at 2015 12:50 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 12:50:54 -0400

I think it is important to remember that military service can also exacerbate previous issues.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 1:53 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 01:53:50 -0400

They need to further examine claims for VA disability for PTSD if they didn't deploy. A friend of mine mentioned on his Facebook page today that he met a PV2 getting disability for PTSD and never deployed.

Response by SPC Anne Miller made Jun 8 at 2015 8:16 AM

SPC Anne Miller — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 08:16:32 -0400

Are you a doctor?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 24 at 2015 3:40 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 15:40:33 -0400

This situation confuses me. What would cause them sleeplessness, depression, anxiety, racing thoughts and depression?

Response by CPO Kenneth Wilkinson made Oct 25 at 2015 2:24 AM

CPO Kenneth Wilkinson — Sun, 25 Oct 2015 02:24:34 -0400

I retired in 1996 and never was in combat. I saw many things in my 20 years. A Friend hung himself in front of me. In the Phillippines in a bus, we got involved in a Gorilla gunfight with soldiers. Death and destruction. Pulling a body out of a suicide car wreck. Buddy got stabbed on the streets overseas and his guts were in the gutter. I was raped as a kid. PTSD is not just from combat. For me, it was an accumulation of events in my life. The Doctors told me I had and when I finally was treated right my symptoms calmed down and I live a great life. It took 14 years after I retired for the Doc's to find my diagnosis. I did not ask for it. I thought life was life and I was strong to overcome anything. As I got older the symptoms got worse until suicide was there. anyone who says you cannot get PTSD from everyday life is a fool. God Bless

Response by SGT James Hunsinger made Oct 28 at 2015 1:21 PM

SGT James Hunsinger — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 13:21:28 -0400

I don't post a lot but I think I willl here. In answer to your question: Because not all PTSD is combat related. My PTSD came from a horrific vehicular accident that occurred in 1991. An 18 wheeler logging truck plowed right through a hummer, injuring many and causing the driver to die as I was trying to save him, pinned in the vehicle and impaled by the steering column. I carried, and still carry his face in my head. The moment the spark left his eyes and I realized he died because I could not get an IV into his arm in time to keep him from bleeding out. I relive it in my dreams, during movies with similar situations. It has caused me a lot of issues over the years and I would never admit I had a problem until I was going to college to become an x-ray tech and had to write a research paper on PTSD. My wife read it and pointed out I had many of the symptoms I had researched. My father and friends had also told me there were changes in me especially since I had begun doing ER clinical time as an x-ray tech. Under pressure from all of those that loved and cared for me I went to the VA and through a series of different doctors, was diagnosed with PTSD and depression. I underwent the therapy and quite frankly feel it has made things worse. I suffer nightmares when I sleep, insomnia attacks, isolationism, and many other symptoms. I didn't ask for these issues and would gladly trade someone that thinks I am faking it. So yes, PTSD can happen without it being combat related and can happen to the strongest of us. Believe me, people who know me know I am anything but weak minded or a weak person. It took a lot of convincing by people I love and respect before I would even admit there might be a problem. This was 24 years ago, this should not be bothering me now.

Just remember, each person is different in mind, body and spirit. What might not affect one person in the slightest might have a profound affect on another. PTSD is something you cannot make assumptions about with each individual and it is something you, I, the VA or anyone else can afford to take lightly because of the consequences that line of thinking can bring. Just believe me when I tell you the screening processes are not something I think someone could easily fake their way through and that in my experience, most of the veterans I have dealt with with PTSD do have legitimate problems and I have dealt with many through my own treatment and while working in the Atlanta VAMC radiology dept.

Response by Cpl Terry Fowler made Oct 30 at 2015 9:48 AM

Cpl Terry Fowler — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 09:48:22 -0400

How could this be possible you have to some kind of disturbance in life. sound like someone is wasting VA resources

Response by PO2 Jim Studrawa made Oct 30 at 2015 9:51 AM

PO2 Jim Studrawa — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 09:51:04 -0400

i am not qualified to judge if there is ptsd or isn't, nor am i qualified to judge who has it or doesn't. i am qualified in a few other areas though. active from 68-74 lets me know how we were treated by the very same people we thought it was our duty to protect. colleges and liberal politicians are teaching us that we are nothing special in this world, the very same world we saved in the past and continued to protect until obama showed up. everybody has strong points and faults, look long enough and you can find a sickness a short coming a defect in all. tell the average joe he is sick and needs help and feel sorry for him and that is going to open a door for him he probably didn't know was even there.

Response by SPC Anne Miller made Nov 5 at 2015 7:40 PM

SPC Anne Miller — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 19:40:52 -0500

Deploying is great and noble and can even help earn promotions. But too ignore the ones still on the Homeland, working in support roles to protect your asses?
Guess, I did nothing!

Response by SSG Robert Spina made Nov 5 at 2015 8:36 PM

SSG Robert Spina — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 20:36:26 -0500

THRY ARE SCAMMING THE SYSTEM

Response by SSG Robert Spina made Nov 5 at 2015 8:38 PM

SSG Robert Spina — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 20:38:28 -0500

THEY ARE SCAMMING THE SYST

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2015 8:51 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 20:51:57 -0500

There was someone that I met recently senior and deployed several times who believes that PTSD is a slight on older veterans (before they had a diagnosis) who "just went on with their lives."

It is important for people to know that it is not limited to combat. Experiencing something traumatic like a shooting, or sexual assault, or an abusive household could do if.

It is so important to find help if you think you have symptoms. Call the Veterans' Crisis Line, Military One Source, Fleet and Family or the Chaplains.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2015 9:32 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 09:32:37 -0500

that can happen, PTSD does not have to be combat related. my wife was in a horrible car accident with her mom and younger brother, those two almost didn't make it and my wife seen it all as she came almost uninjured. that happened 15yrs ago and to this day my wife is terrified of driving and traffic.

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Nov 6 at 2015 1:02 PM

Sgt Kelli Mays — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 13:02:54 -0500

PTSD is not just caused by going into the battlefield. It could be caused by any number of traumas whether mentally or physically.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2015 9:13 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 21:13:53 -0500

My point of this thread was about people scamming the system by claiming and receiving benefits from pre existing conditions and trauma. The VA shouldn't be forking out benefits to anyone that doesn't deserve them.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 9 at 2015 8:13 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 08:13:57 -0500

I could be wrong, but the PTSD that we typically talk about in the Military is based upon "prolonged stress based upon trauma"... and it grind my gears when I hear someone say "I was in a car crash, I got PTSD". When in all actuality, that person does not have PTSD, that person have Trauma.

All trauma does not lead to PTSD. I wish that the Military used something like Combat Stress Disorder, so the civilian world could feel the difference. I think the verbiage is the a big issue.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 11 at 2015 3:25 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 11 Nov 2015 15:25:02 -0500

I think it a generational quirk.

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Nov 12 at 2015 12:31 PM

SSG Audwin Scott — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:31:42 -0500

I think every situation should be evaluated individually ie Ft.Hood shooting, in other words PTSD is not just a combat thing Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2015 9:47 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Nov 2015 09:47:53 -0500

I will weigh in on my experience with soldiers that come in the Army with three years or less. I can name about 20-25 former soldiers that brag and educate others on how to claim PTSD without having it. Some have went on with their lives and became successful. Some just collect the check and try to survive. I will tell you this. Just about anyone in the Army can claim PTSD. What we need to fix is the screening and treatment process. They also need to add in mandatory re-evaluations if they want to continue to receive these benefits. The system is broke and need to be fixed. I will provide you with an example. I got a new soldier about two months ago. While at work he told me he had to go to mental health. I said no way. You just came in the Army. He told me yeah I still think about getting smoked at Basic training. It still bothers me. They said its just PTSD as long as I don't work on the weekends it will pass. I am dead serious! I had to walk away. Later we had a long talk about it now he is the best private that I have.

Response by SGT Jen Roy made Nov 28 at 2015 3:35 PM

SGT Jen Roy — Sat, 28 Nov 2015 15:35:09 -0500

I was gang raped by 3 drill instructors in AIT, lost my virginity and became pregnant from the rape. I suffer from PTSD severely. So at that point I did not see combat.

Response by SSG John Caples made Nov 29 at 2015 12:08 PM

SSG John Caples — Sun, 29 Nov 2015 12:08:24 -0500

A-POS {PIECE OF SHIT} SPLDIER , SCUM BAG , POG,

Response by SGT Jen Roy made Nov 29 at 2015 3:16 PM

SGT Jen Roy — Sun, 29 Nov 2015 15:16:08 -0500

I was in AIT when I was gang raped, sodomized and brutally attacked, humiliated and lost my virginity and became pregnant from this incident. Now this was prior to deployment and I can tell you that I suffer from PTSD severely from that incident.

Response by SSG Delanda Hunt made May 2 at 2016 1:45 PM

SSG Delanda Hunt — Mon, 02 May 2016 13:45:18 -0400

It's a big scam and it's gaming the system. Soon everyone in the Military that's getting out will be claiming PTSD.

Response by CSM Thomas McGarry made May 2 at 2016 1:51 PM

CSM Thomas McGarry — Mon, 02 May 2016 13:51:38 -0400

Actually given any circumstances I think it is a medical decision made by a medical professional who is charges with determining this

Response by PV2 Andrew Schauf- Anderson made May 24 at 2017 11:36 AM

PV2 Andrew Schauf- Anderson — Wed, 24 May 2017 11:36:57 -0400

Like everyone says it depends on the veteran themself, for example a person could be going through weapons training and/or combatives and be seriously injured. That can be a cause of PTSD especially for those who don't know (or rarely) gets into fights, or never used a weapon.

Response by PO3 Steven Taylor made Jul 31 at 2020 7:20 PM

PO3 Steven Taylor — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 19:20:14 -0400

If that's the case I should claim it myself, I spent 4 years at sea duty in one of the Main Machinery Rooms on USS INDEPENEDENCE in the 1970's surrounded by 1200 psi superheated steam and 480 volt electrical systems. There's times it got pretty hairy with high speed runs and launching aircraft, the boilers would just about jump off their foundations with load changes. I got the shit scared out of me a few times. I won't of course because that's not how it works. In my opinion someone claiming PTSD that didn't deploy is stretching things, I have nothing but respect for guys and gals patrolling outside the wire, you deserve whatever compensation you can get. Troops stateside, that's a different story in my view.

Response by PVT Caleb Young made Aug 13 at 2020 5:01 AM

PVT Caleb Young — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 05:01:23 -0400

They are just as bad as the people putting on a uniform without any service in my book.

Response by SSgt William Steinkamp made Sep 5 at 2020 8:52 PM

SSgt William Steinkamp — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 20:52:53 -0400

What does deployment have to do with anything?

Response by SSG Brian G. made Sep 6 at 2020 12:43 AM

SSG Brian G. — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 00:43:30 -0400

PTSD is not a deployment specific or even deployment requiring ailment. A SM can suffer from PTSD from and for a number of things. A Firefighter, an EMT a Medic, a Paramedic, a Doctor, someone in training etc.

A person could get raped, attacked, have an accident, be exposed to numerous traumas that no training can really prepare you for. And it is also something that is not even service specific as those that have never served in the armed forced can get it.

It's fairly simple though, a person that claims PTSD or goes to a physician has to exhibit signs of PTSD to be diagnosed with it. It is not a judgement call of anyone except the SM and their Doctor. It is not a leaders discretion whether they get it or not. The leader is not a Doctor and not the one suffering and has not say on the diagnosis and never should. The leader is there to support the SM or if they suspect malingering to conduct a proper investigation.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 6 at 2020 7:57 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 07:57:33 -0400

Old post, I get it. I have never met anyone who receives cash benefit receive it due to PTSD and not having deployed. If it is true, it is the fault of the panel of people who review claims, not senior leaders. Report these injustices and they should be resolved.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Sep 6 at 2020 1:54 PM

LT Brad McInnis — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 13:54:27 -0400

When out processing, the doc told me I had PTSD from some of the things I did while in service. It was not combat. So, I told him if he put it in my record, I was going to punch him in his nuts and he can claim PTSD. To me, PTSD is combat related, only, but that is me.

Response by A1C Tim Rohrer made Sep 7 at 2020 12:28 AM

A1C Tim Rohrer — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:28:54 -0400

Its your (STRESSER) NOT THE COMBAT a rape victim can have just as much PTSD as a combat vet

Response by GySgt Gary Cordeiro made Sep 25 at 2020 10:31 PM

GySgt Gary Cordeiro — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 22:31:40 -0400

PTSD is a mystery that is currently gathering data. The source can come from numerous avenues. The individual’s current state of mind, the stressor and the outcome all play significant roles. Don’t judge. Acceptance and care are crucial from the onset.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2020 12:11 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 12:11:27 -0400

Combat-related PTSD claims are the biggest number, but a not-so-distant second is Military Sexual Trauma. Most of those occur in garrison.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2020 3:21 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 03:21:48 -0400

If I had not witnessed it myself I would have discounted this guy as a total fraud. In the mid 80s I was working on a drilling rig in California. The driller had the 1000 meter stair, wore a frayed 8 point marine fatigue cover al the time, never said much and barked instructions with a DI's attitude. This guy frequently locked down the brake, jumped to the ground and started something like a flashback. Low crawling, taking cover, calling for the RTO, just wracked with fear..... a real show.
Everybody assumed he suffered from shell shock from Nam. He never said anything jsut seemed to recover and get back on the break. He disappeared.
After about a year we finally got his story. Long story short and nothing really verified except his age. He was around 15 when Nam ended. He had been turned down for enlistment. Last I heard he was in a mental institution.
This guy's problem was real so maybe he was not a fraud.
Some people are just crazy.
Others just cannot take it.
A buck sergeant on my LRRP team, a FNG had been on about 4 missions with us. We were on a mission, look, listen and give hourly SitReps. During the night so dark you could not see yur hand. We heard some chatter. Sometimes in the jungle it was hard to determine how close and where a sound is coming from. At sunrise this buck sergeant was frozen with fear, sweating, whimpering, teeth rattling. We called for a "Kick in the Teeth" to fake extraction and got him out of there. Point is everybody has a different breaking point. We had all gone through the same night and other missions with this FNG Ranger. I kinda agree with SSG Delanda Hunt. Plus the military needs to stop being so sensitive in training and train for war.

Response by SPC Matt Ovaska made Oct 4 at 2020 8:08 AM

SPC Matt Ovaska — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 08:08:43 -0400

It is an easy way to get a disability check,, A vet at the VA hospital told me his friend coached him on the right answers for the PTSD exam and got 100% disability. I wonder if PTSD was created for snow flakes. Some how I think the VA would not score any points by offering a WW2 vet a free coloring book!!! Unbelievable.

Response by SSG Jeff Furgerson made Oct 4 at 2020 12:45 PM

SSG Jeff Furgerson — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 12:45:44 -0400

I have two opinions about PTSD, 1 st I think there are more ways to get PTSD other than combat, ie if a child suffers abuse most of their life I could see them suffering PTSD second I'm not qualified to say who has or doesn't have it, I think this maybe why the senior leadership stays out of it, professional in the Psychiatry dept, can figure it out, I try to not to judge anyone, because when I do I'm usually wrong.

Response by SSG Nicolas Jordan made Oct 31 at 2020 3:44 PM

SSG Nicolas Jordan — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 15:44:44 -0400

I deployed to K2 and afghanistan weeks after 9/11. My deploymentwasnt bad, I made it out alive. I was just medically retired after 22 years for a back injury sustained o a training patrol....yeah, survive combat patrols, get hurt i training, go figure... But what I experienced in the last 10 have me pursuing ptsd because my head is in absolute shambles.

Complete psychological abuse while in recruiting command- watching drug addict recruiters, and others who slept with their applicants- all get awarded and promoted.

Then I join a unit, get hurt do to lack of training time previously, and instead of getting help, I spend the next 3 years doing MWR work before being attached to a new recruit training unit.

I retired as a 5, even though I was in a 6 slot because my unit wouldnt send me to school because they waited too long and I was on perm profile. So I get paid now as a 6, but never got the honor of wearing it, I was in a 6 slot for nearly a year, and had been PSG for several years....

I've worked for the honor guard, and told over 1,000 families the same speech to honor their loved one, started them stoically in the eyes and did not falter.

So the army retired me at 50% for a back injury and sciatica...with the IDES program which the VA 'promises' to concur with army findings. The va medical team put the wrong year of my injury, denied my claim, but gave me 1p% for tinnitus.....

I have a degree in law enforcement, graduated the MN police academy with honors and passed my state licensing exam. Cant get hired. Couldnt pass the psychological prescreening for mn state patrol.... I am at my wits end. And I dont see any way out of this..I am not a harm to myself or others...but I feel like I've got every god damned right to be taken care of, instead of being pushed aside. I never sought va help after my deployment because I have all my fingers and toes, and know others who cant say the same. I know that my marbles arent rolling around in my head the way they should, and I feel like 100% total unemployability isnt a far stretch after all I've do e for this country- and I cant even get a job to support my family now.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Nov 15 at 2020 7:02 PM

SGT Doug Blanchard — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 19:02:05 -0500

I was diagnosed with PTSD while I was still on active duty. The only fighting I saw was in Operation Urgeant Fury, (Grenada), in 1983. But the PTSD was diagnosed before that though. As I was a combat nedic during the infancy days of the modern day EMS. I and a number of other medics would volunteer our services with civilian services at various duty stations. Things that I saw both during training and volunteering in the civilian sector, which in many ways were worse, especially some of the car accidents I worked back then, well.......
As one VA psychitriast I used to see, he told me that it had been his experience that more members in the Army, especially in a combat MOS, and Marines show signs of having PTSD, even if they have never been in combat, because of the training we receive compared to other non combat MOS/jobs in the military. All because it is in the back of our mind we have been trained to kill the enemy, sometimes with our bare hands if necessary.

Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Nov 15 at 2020 8:44 PM

MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 20:44:50 -0500

When you consider the soft society that many of these young folks come from it has to be expected. They have never been told "NO" and have it stick or been given real directions that they were expected to follow. What historically has happened in basic training is a totally foreign concept to them and they don't know how to handle it or adapt to it. Not surprised at all.

Response by SPC Bill Palmer made Nov 19 at 2020 11:59 PM

SPC Bill Palmer — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 23:59:09 -0500

When I was a State Veterans Service Officer, I filed a PTSD claim for a Navy man who was never deployed. He was on duty to help prepare fighter jets at a NAS. One of the crewmen was checking the cockpit in a jet and accidentally triggered the machine gun. His best friend walked into the line of fire and cut in half a close range. After retrieving the incident report and the duty roster which proved the man was on duty at that particular place, along with psychiatric medical documents, it was approved by the VA. Up to that time it was the first grant of PTSD to a non-deployed-noncombatant service member. I'm sure in the 20 years following that claim there have been others filed and granted. So, to answer your question, it is possible to receive a disability rating for PTSD from the VA for a non-deployed service member.

Response by CPL Joe Brown made Dec 21 at 2020 10:47 AM

CPL Joe Brown — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 10:47:35 -0500

PTSD is being used by many as a tool to suck money out of taxpayers pockets while the rest of us that needed this help 50 years ago after Vietnam...get nothing.

Response by PFC David Gettman made Dec 22 at 2020 8:58 AM

PFC David Gettman — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:58:19 -0500

Served my entire enlistment in Germany, the "land of frauleins and free-flowing bier", yet I have a 70% service connected disability for PTSD and classified permanently/totally unemployable, so I get 100%. Shit happens in the military and it can leave a permanent mark.
Nobody saw when I tackled a burning E-6 at 0150hrs on July 25, 1974, just feet in front of his burning fully combat loaded M-551 Sheridan with rocket motors cooking off inside. Less than 15 seconds after extinguishing SSG Warren J. Brow and sending him stumbling towards the road, the tank was ripped apart in a catastrophic explosion sending the turret flipping backwards several yards and the sides of the hull and tracks in different directions. Only thing left where the tank had originally sat was the engine. The 152mm main gun was found buried about 70 yards away. I ended up over a split rail fence about 25 yards away with the left side of the hull and left track just behind me. Somehow SSG Brow made it to the road after the explosion. I laid out in the field until the burning cases of small arms ammo that had scattered around quit cooking off, then I walked back to the road through all the rubble. SSG Brow was standing on the edge of the road next to a jeep, wrapped in a wool blanket and shivering uncontrollably, burnt remnants of his clothes hanging in tatters from his charred legs and arms, his bulging white eyes glaring out from his blackened face. 1LT Stilley was frantically calling for a helicopter to medivac him out but couldn't convince anyone it wasn't a simulation. Seemed like forever before SSG Brow was finally flown out, and we never saw him again. I didn't even know if he survived until 25 years later.
I was recommended for the Soldier's Medal by Lieut. Stilley but it was denied for lack of witnesses. Had no problem getting the PTSD rating when I applied in 2002 though.
This is what 8 Shillelagh rockets, each containing 15 pounds of Octol in their warhead, and 20 conventional 152mm high explosive anti-tank rounds will do to a 17 ton armored vehicle when they all detonate at once inside. I'm standing on the far left where I tackled SSG Brow, wearing the poncho I used to extinguish him. The remnants of the tank are scattered behind me.

Response by LCpl Nicholas Bredthauer made Jul 10 at 2021 2:44 AM

LCpl Nicholas Bredthauer — Sat, 10 Jul 2021 02:44:07 -0400

It would depend on how people respond to different stressors. While in bootcamp we had someone jump out of a window to try to commit suicide. While on camp guard between bootcamp and infantry training school we had a fellow Marines blow his own head off full metal jacket style but we'd with his rifle on 3 round burst. I saw those things withing 4 months. One of my roommates committed suicide after being discharged. I originally was discharged with a 30% disability rating, 17 years later after half a year of appointments I am 100% p&t I am rated 70% for anxiety... (I had no idea until I spent multiple hours with a psychologist) I still have not shared much of this and other stuff that I saw with my wife or family. You never know what happened to someone. The process is rather intense to get a accurate rating.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 10 at 2021 9:41 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 10 Jul 2021 21:41:43 -0400

You made a bad assumption. Decisions should not be based on assumptions.

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Jul 11 at 2021 12:23 PM

SSG Bill McCoy — Sun, 11 Jul 2021 12:23:02 -0400

I feel that PTSD should be limited, to SOME extent. Obviously, combat but also rape or shooting victims whether deployed or not. As for witnessing or viewing those things in life where it can happen to those on active duty, OR to civilians, I'm not so sure. Post service time, I've seen a lot of trauma cases as an EMT/Paramedic and Fireman; and as a MP on active duty. As an MP I was already a "seasoned" soldier so I don't think any of those should be a cause to apply for VA Disability except perhaps for lower enlisted. Once you attain NCO rank, you've more or less CHOSEN your profession, and all that comes with it, while a young soldier really hasn't, even when they get the MOS they wanted ... like MP or Medics. Of course there could be exceptions ...like a clerk who is victimized by something extraordinary, like a mass shooting - Fort Hood comes to mind. Would that clerk qualify for witnessing a serious, OFF-post traffic accident? Probably not, so why would they be eligible for VA Disability if the accident happend ON post? Maybe that's already a deciding factor, I don't know; but at the same time, that clerk should be eligible for TREATMENT of PTSD, either while in service, or as a Veteran.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2021 7:28 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:28:15 -0500

Standing in the DEFAC line i Mosul I constantly heard soldiers teaching each other how to claim PTSD payments from the VA and most did not even leave the FOB. I also know of an Inmate that is drawing a PTSD chek for being a gang member, and another who can't go anywhere with out his dog ,except to disney land,Gatlinberg , and of course a cruse. Just too many jumping on the wagon to know who is real, I have even seen fake ptsd dogs that bark and growl at people. If something is easy and free. You will find it full of fraud.

Response by SSgt Russell Stevens made Feb 4 at 2022 2:10 AM

SSgt Russell Stevens — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 02:10:33 -0500

The question is vague at best. There is no background information in the question to give a firm yes, no, or maybe to answer it. Another thing to consider is the line of duty determination, was PTSD contracted because of duty? Once again, not enough information to form an answer.

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made Feb 4 at 2022 10:17 AM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 10:17:15 -0500

Somebody's always looking for something for nothing.

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Feb 4 at 2022 10:35 AM

Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 10:35:54 -0500

I own and operate a company called A Twist of Faith Counseling and Therapy with involvement in the field of psychology for 40 plus years. PTSD can be contracted without deploying and for many reasons.

Response by SPC Donald Tribble made Feb 4 at 2022 10:36 AM

SPC Donald Tribble — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 10:36:20 -0500

I served in the Peacetime Army from 1984-to 1987, I did not see combat, but I saw lots of really bad things as a Medic working the Post ambulance. Everything from hanging in the 11 Engineering BN to multiple vehicle accidents with major trauma that I still relive today. We also had a Vietnam Vet E-6 who post it after seeing the movie Platoon which lead to an hours-long standoff because somehow he got a hold of an M-16 with live ammunition. So, PTSD is not just related to Combat. Any traumatic event can cause it. Please follow this link to the American Psychiatric Association's explanation of PTSD. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd

What Is PTSD?

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, a terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2022 11:22 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 11:22:26 -0500

What do I think? I think your ignorant on the issue and for some perverted idiotic reason you think PTSD can only occur by someone deployed into combat.

Response by SrA John Monette made Feb 4 at 2022 11:48 AM

SrA John Monette — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 11:48:14 -0500

Should everyone who deploys claim PTSD? Why shouldn't someone claim it if they have been diagnosed? Does that mean that civilians can't suffer from PTSD?

Response by CMSgt Marcus Falleaf made Feb 4 at 2022 11:59 AM

CMSgt Marcus Falleaf — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 11:59:07 -0500

Coming from a UAV base, I can see some having PTSD after being a part of the air strike, day after day, like a regular job. No outlet, going home to family, it has got to be tough.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Feb 4 at 2022 1:16 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 13:16:38 -0500

So civilian Cops, Firefighters and Medical personnel, among others, can't have PTSD?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2022 2:16 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:16:05 -0500

I'm going to ruffle the feathers here.

I had a USAR soldier, never deployed and newly out of BCT, and as we are getting onto the bus to go to our weapons qual weekend the soldier emotionally fall apart. They were shaking and just didn't want anything to do with firing weapons.

I'm asking myself, how the hell did this soldier get through BCT/AIT.

If forced my hand and put me in almost an impossible position because now we are mission ready and going to start movement, and now I have a brand new soldier with no basis of PTSD holding up movement.

I was rather pissed at what I perceived a manipulation of the system. As part of the system myself I'm bound to my responsibilities to make sure the soldier is taken care of. I was astronomically lucky I had a SFC who was staying back due to physical profile and going to work on administrative things at the unit. So I was able to hand off the soldier for those tasks.

I don't get to say what the soldier's problems are. That is not my lane, but I felt the system was manipulated at a very critical time and I get very lucky with my SFC hand off situation to allow mission to go forward.

PTSD is a thing. It can be manipulated like any "sick call" roster can. We as leaders are not in the position to decide yes/no. We have to push them through the system and work it that way like we might a Truck that is having mechanical problems. You stop, pull over, and address the issue and hand the problem off to trained personnel to correct the problem.

Response by SPC Terry Martin made Feb 4 at 2022 2:20 PM

SPC Terry Martin — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:20:45 -0500

It should be rare and closely screened, but there are other extenuating circumstances they may merit the PTSD.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 4 at 2022 3:19 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:19:08 -0500

I don't know if I am right or wrong here. Society has changed. At one time we slaughtered some of our farm animals for food, and life was sometimes hard. Now life is gentler. It is as if we bred out the arduous life and the violence.

Response by SPC Brian Jones made Feb 4 at 2022 3:47 PM

SPC Brian Jones — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:47:29 -0500

I think you may be confusing "combat related" PTSD with the overall diagnosis of PTSD. PTSD can be "gained" from any traumatic event. Do I think there are service members that "stretch" things to get a rating? I am sure there are those out their. Ptsd is very hard to diagnosis. So hard in fact that the VA removed my 2nd amendment rights as I was going through the medical boards. Had to sign a paper agreeing that I was "incompetent" or not sign it and not get the medical care I needed.
If they are still allowing this to happen then it helps weed out those that are trying to "get a free check"
But to your post, it really is up to the shrinks if the service member is really suffering from PTSD.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 4 at 2022 4:47 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 16:47:08 -0500

Combat does not have a monopoly on PTSD. We just associate it with combat because we have heard that all of our lives, but the fact is that PTSD can come from anything, car wreck, rape, sexual assault, assault, pretty much anything traumatic in your life can cause PTSD...I have a farmer friend that quit farming because he lost a farm hand to a horrific tractor rollover and fire that he witnessed...he is diagnosed with PTSD and doesn't farm anymore because he can't go near farm equipment without high anxiety. He runs a farm supply store but he does not farm.

If you are on active duty when it happens then you should apply and get the help you need. Top leaders do not have a say in the medical issues of those that are separating or retiring.

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made Feb 4 at 2022 5:27 PM

SPC Steven Depuy — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 17:27:00 -0500

My wife and I own a small HVAC company. I went through a period of being on call at
Night three out of every four weeks for 7 months after the recession. I got to the point I was so burned out I would sit at home and shake at night waiting for the answering service to call. It took years to get over it. Never claimed to anyone to have PTSD but pretty sure I met the medical requirements technically.

Response by SMSgt Bob Wilson made Feb 4 at 2022 6:21 PM

SMSgt Bob Wilson — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:21:08 -0500

My Postal Carrier claimed PTSD because dogs bark at him and a Chihuahua bit him. We had a bus driver claiming PTSD because a bullet hit the bus she was driving. As you noticed, these incidents did not have any military connection. "PTSD" is now a catchall for: [1] I'm stressed [2] I'm lazy; and the company owes me or [3] I want a stress-free job. PTSD IS REAL; however, people are claiming it, both, in the military and civilian sectors to get disability [ie free money]. They military has or should develop guidelines for measurement of the issue. In the case you described it isn't PTSD, but stress.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is psychological/clinical definition. Prior to the last conflicts the definition was clear--"Shell Shocked" or "Combat Fatigue". It appeared to be easier to diagnose.
PTSD: 5 signs you need to know
-A life threatening event. This includes a perceived-to-be life threatening event. ...
-Internal reminders of the event. These symptoms typically present as nightmares or flashbacks. ...
-Avoidance of external reminders. ...
-Altered anxiety state. ...
-Changes in mood or thinking.

Today's leadership want to be kinder and gentler leaders.

Response by SP5 Dennis Loberger made Feb 4 at 2022 6:54 PM

SP5 Dennis Loberger — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:54:49 -0500

PTSD can come from a variety of reasons. You can develop post-traumatic stress disorder when you go through, see or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation. Your brain chemicals can go haywire and genetics can affect mental health as well. Even a number of minor that individually would not create a problem can build up over time and create PTSD.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2022 8:02 PM

CDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 20:02:22 -0500

PTSD can occur well outside of deploying, SFC Hilbert. And just because someone deploys doesn't mean they see combat.

And what do you really care? The goverenment issues debt and has the Federal Reserve print trillions upon trillions of debt instruments (Federal Reserve Notes; aka U.S. dollars) at will.

Forget about what others are doing and go get some of that cash flowing toward yourself.

To Your Liberty,

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2022 9:36 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 21:36:06 -0500

People can suffer from trauma and have PTSD from anywhere. If they have mental health issues let them claim it. Deployed personnel with PTSD on the other hand need a lot more encouragement to seek help in my opinion. Someone who hasn't deploy should be allowed to use the available resources provided to them. People should seek help whenever they need it and should not be shamed or denied those privileges.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 4 at 2022 10:05 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 22:05:34 -0500

On a case by case basis. Many things have the potential to cause it. Unless it relates to their service it could be difficult.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made Feb 6 at 2022 9:05 AM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 09:05:42 -0500

I’ll play nicely, I promise. PTSD is a mental injury that can occur regardless of your status. One of my worst episodes involved supporting an aircraft crash. To say it was bad is an understatement. The worst part was when we had to get the dead crew to the nearest military hospital. In this case it was 1.5 hours away from the crash site. 6 people in 7 body bags and a one gallon zip lock bag. We were supporting the investigation with one of our UH-1N’s. When it came time to transport them, my helicopter was tasked with their transport. Five live personnel and six deceased were on board. We were forced to sit on the corpses for the entire trip. Not much room in a Huey. The smell was indescribable. I’ll stop there. To say it was a nightmare is an understatement. Yes, I have PTSD. That wasn’t the only horrible episode I had to deal with. 25 years doing and seeing stuff like this has made me jumpier than a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs. I’m 100% P&T. Not proud of that. I’d have been okay without all the nightmares and hyper alertness and crapping my drawers every time I see a C-130 flying around.
Deployed into a combat zone can give someone PTSD. Same goes for being in a non combat zone/non deployed status.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2022 8:55 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 20:55:07 -0500

I'm positive half the vets getting disability from the VA are fake.

Response by SPC Kenneth Koerperich made Feb 6 at 2022 10:15 PM

SPC Kenneth Koerperich — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 22:15:27 -0500

IF it's a deserved diagnosis/condition....But I know way to many WHO jumped on the band wagon, lied through their teeth to get benefits so they can do NOTHING w/ the rest of their lives....This is the MOST abused thing to get free money.....

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Feb 19 at 2022 7:04 PM

AA Loreen Silvarahawk — Sat, 19 Feb 2022 19:04:10 -0500

I agree with SFC Michael Hasbun. I never deployed, receive a non-service connected pension and know I could get service connected for PTSD. However, I am too old to open that can of worms. I still have flash backs from the things that happened. However, I am too old to open that can of worms.

Response by AA Loreen Silvarahawk made Feb 19 at 2022 9:06 PM

AA Loreen Silvarahawk — Sat, 19 Feb 2022 21:06:11 -0500

I agree with SFC Michael Hasbun. I receive a non-service connected pension. I have PTSD from things that happened while in the service. However, I am too old to open that can of worms.

Response by SPC Bill Bailey made Feb 21 at 2022 2:24 AM

SPC Bill Bailey — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 02:24:13 -0500

It can happen. I have a friend who had to clean up after a friendly fire incident that happened to other members of his tank Co.. It happened over 30 years ago and he's still dealing with it.

Response by SFC William Linnell made Feb 21 at 2022 10:31 AM

SFC William Linnell — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 10:31:20 -0500

I have always wondered about it myself as many years ago after Desert Storm I over heard a Rep coaching a few Soldiers on what to do, act and say to get PTSD rating. I didn't feel that I had it from that conflict. While in Afghanistan, I became a victim of ID thief. Had a great friend work on clearing it up for me while deployed. Got back and straight into confrontation mode with the last 2 hold outs. At one point, I "blacked" out while on the phone. My friend placed their hand on my arm and I came back. The look on their face said it all while mouthing WTF!!!???
Then straight to my new unit training new teams at the Combat Advisor school. Then one of my teams from jump street gave me issues. One day they weren't where they were suppose to be. Got my ass chewed. I pissed for that as I couldn't control it. The team leader was a Major. After finding them still in the rack, I mildly went off. Briefed my CO and 1SG. I went away to cool off then called back to see the CO. He made me wait 1 1/2 hours before she called me in. He let me speak freely and BAMMM!!! Another blackout moment. I snapped back, went to Parade Rest. 1SG was just shaking his head, CO was backed up against the wall as hard as he could scared as hell. I apologized and stated I don't know what happened. 1SG drove me to the hospital and I went in to the shrink. Classified PTSD with instant anger. Drug time.
A person just doesn't know. It could be from witnessing dead bodies, and injury or whatever. There's no 1 check the block list to cover it. Honestly as a retired careerist combat tanker, Our military, Army, is WAY TOO UNDERSTAFF to thoroughly treat these Soldiers coming back from the war and other agencies as well. 20 years straight, multiple tours. Don't judge. Listen and support.

Response by SPC Dennis Kregel made Feb 21 at 2022 11:19 AM

SPC Dennis Kregel — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:19:25 -0500

Having served "back in the day" as today's generation refers to it PTSD did not exist yet. Or should I more correctly state that it wasn't called PTSD yet. Now in my 7 years I never deployed however as a recovery specialist in a mechanized infantry battalion in Germany I saw a few roll overs and more than one Bradley sink while trying a water crossing. So, I got to witness a few catastrophic injuries and even a few deaths.

Also, I did witness a few victims of SA and how they were treated so I would have to say that under the right set of traumatic events I could clearly see how a non-deployed service member could suffer from PTSD.

Response by SPC Dennis Kregel made Feb 21 at 2022 11:47 AM

SPC Dennis Kregel — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:47:51 -0500

I know I commented on this before but after I read this post over and over, I just couldn't shake a nagging thought.

With your apparent opinion that PTSD only comes from being deployed how comfortable do you think that would make a female service member to come to you if something traumatic happened to her?

This is by no means an attack, simple a question. One that only you can answer.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Feb 24 at 2022 11:43 AM

SSG Eric Blue — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 11:43:32 -0500

PTSD isn't solely related to combat/deployment. A number of things can easily happen at home station that would cause someone to develop PTSD. One of them is being struck by lightning. I've been hit twice (not in the same place) and because of that, being out in bad weather makes me more nervous than it did before. When I see lightning flash or hear thunder now, I tense up badly. The meds help, but not completely.

Response by Sgt Mitchell Braswell made Feb 25 at 2022 10:45 AM

Sgt Mitchell Braswell — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 10:45:46 -0500

Well I crashed in a Marine Corps helicopter. Two Marines sitting next to me died. It was a training mission. The sight is something you don’t get over. I asked for compensation for my knee but I was sent to shrinks who said I had tbi and ptsd. Not all trama is during combat.

Response by SSG Clayton Lam made Feb 27 at 2022 4:21 PM

SSG Clayton Lam — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 16:21:19 -0500

Someone could have PTSD from having been sexually assaulted or they could have been in a training accident or have been in a military vehicle accident. PTSD is not just caused by combat.

Response by Sgt R Scott made Mar 7 at 2022 8:29 AM

Sgt R Scott — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 08:29:29 -0500

Serving as a Veterans Service Officer I came across a case of a veteran who was diagnosed and receiving service-connection for PTSD. 100% S/C, he never left the states. The veteran worked in motor-T. While changing a tire on a humvee it exploded. Of course he had other injuries as well. He 100% for the PTSD and he received additional 60% for the other conditions. So he was drawing what they call 100 + 60 or special monthly compensation, which is an additional $500 above the 100% rate. There are many forms of PTSD. Like many have said in here, leave it to the professionals

Response by PO1 Mike Wallace made Mar 12 at 2022 4:06 PM

PO1 Mike Wallace — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 16:06:42 -0500

I gave up my gavel and don't look good in black robes but PTSD has become a go to for a lot of people whether military or not. Without question there are a wide variety of things that can trigger it beyond combat operations. I just feel it has been misused by many.

Response by PFC Matt Ochmanski made Mar 26 at 2022 3:46 PM

PFC Matt Ochmanski — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 15:46:36 -0400

How about a few MP’s that never deployed but we’re dispatched to a traffic accident with injuries that became fatal? Couldn’t that cause PTSD? You can’t judge the book without reading it from front to back with every page read in between!

Response by Sgt Judy Leonard made Apr 13 at 2022 3:40 AM

Sgt Judy Leonard — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 03:40:32 -0400

Don’t have to deploy to get PTSD.

Response by SrA Janice Heebsh made Apr 19 at 2022 2:33 PM

SrA Janice Heebsh — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:33:21 -0400

I was sexually assaulted by one of my peers while serving. I experience many of the conditions of PTSD, including hyper vigilance, intrusive thoughts, and flashbacks of my assault. This is not hard to understand.

Response by Lt Col Brad Hornsby made Apr 23 at 2022 2:02 PM

Lt Col Brad Hornsby — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 14:02:45 -0400

Studies also show drone operators can get PTSD. They view and count body parts after a killing and may never leave the States. PTSD is determined by the specific facts of the incident, not location of said incident.

Response by SSG Douglas Shaffer made Apr 26 at 2022 6:42 PM

SSG Douglas Shaffer — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 18:42:50 -0400

Each case is different and should be judge on its merit. Let's say a group of soldiers find themselves in a minefield and have to self-extract. Would this qualify? What if during training of Call for Fire exercise and the artillery unit reversed the grid coordinates and started dropping live shells on the caller's position, would this count? Would being on a large live fire exercise and receive shrapnel from a grenade count? What if you were doing a nighttime Fire and Maneuver exercise and accidently shot your battle buddy in the back of the head. These are all non-deployment exercises, and they all really did happen, there are many more examples like this out there. Each one of these examples happen during training do they not qualify as trauma or trauma server enough to induce PTSD? It is not on you or me to determine who does or doesn't qualify for PTSD Benefits it is up to the VA who researches each claim to determine the evidence of each claim.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2022 12:51 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 12:51:21 -0400

I have no clue as to how and why?
I suppose this is how rules are made to regulate the few individuals so that the rest of the majority can suffer for it.

Response by SSG David Andrews made Apr 30 at 2022 1:35 PM

SSG David Andrews — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 13:35:49 -0400

My first thought was that This may be approaching "Stolen Valor", however, after reading the entire post, I cannot argue against it. Yes, there are various types of PTSD and they have absolutely nothing to do with deployibg!

Response by SSG David Andrews made Apr 30 at 2022 1:39 PM

SSG David Andrews — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 13:39:08 -0400

My initial thought when reading the post/question was, "this may be Stolen Valor". However, after reading the full post I cannot disagree with the premise. Yes, anyone could possibly suffer from PTSD and never deploy.

Response by TSgt Eric "Dutch" DeVries made May 6 at 2022 4:02 PM

TSgt Eric "Dutch" DeVries — Fri, 06 May 2022 16:02:12 -0400

It's Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, not Post-Traumatic Stress from Deployment. Sure, it used to be called "Battle Fatigue" and "Shell Shock", but those are things that lead to PTSD, not the exclusive causes.
Everyone experiences trauma. Everyone will have stress after that trauma. Some people will have that stress significantly injure them and be termed to have a Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). Many recover from it within a reasonable amount of time, but those who continue to suffer from it for prolonged period progress to the defined PTSD.

To answer the question, people should definitely be able to claim PTSD even if never having seen combat.
To answer the broader question, people who claim PTSD, but aren't truly suffering from anything, merely trying to receive disability benefits, should be prosecuted for a false claim, just as though they had faked a physical injury. They are a disgrace to the uniform and those who have honorably served. They make it difficult for others to be taken seriously when they have a true condition, and limit the resources available to those who need them.

Response by SPC Rebecca Peters made May 6 at 2022 8:29 PM

SPC Rebecca Peters — Fri, 06 May 2022 20:29:20 -0400

Top leaders have nothing to do with what an individual files in their personal HIPPA protected va claims folder , the VA operates separate., There are other reasons a person may have ptsd other than combat, military sexual trauma being among them,

Response by SSgt Eugene Hammonds made May 6 at 2022 9:54 PM

SSgt Eugene Hammonds — Fri, 06 May 2022 21:54:37 -0400

All that matters is the conversation between the service member and the medical professional. No one should be discouraged from having that conversation.

Response by Sgt Sharon Lewis-Waites made Jun 9 at 2022 5:24 PM

Sgt Sharon Lewis-Waites — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:24:12 -0400

Many enlistment have had horrific things happen to them that had nothing to do with Combat. There is no way they only go hand in hand. For my self I had a Tubal Pregnancy & almost died from blood loss. Then three years later eight months pregnant with a child the doctors said I could never have, I was broad sided by a drunk Army wife. I almost lost my baby, my 2 1/2 year old in the back seat and I did lose my career. So don’t you tell me about PTSD and combat.

I still have nightmares about those events!

Response by PFC Martin Potashner made Jun 17 at 2022 2:20 PM

PFC Martin Potashner — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 14:20:53 -0400

SOMETHING IS WRONG HERE IF YOU NEVER DEPLOYED ANYWERE HOW CAN YOU APPLY FOR PTSD>

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jun 18 at 2022 11:29 AM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 11:29:52 -0400

Extreme Anxiety & Stress Guilt Chemical Addiction
Death of Someone Close Shame Traumatic Events
Moral Injury Spiritual Injury Sleep Deprivation
Grieving Over “Old Self” Accidents Excessive Adrenaline
Anger Sexual Assault Physical Assault
Domestic Abuse Torture Sleep Deprivation
Constant Adrenaline Watching Violence Physical Assault
Natural Disaster Sexual Assault

Response by CSM Bob Stanek made Jun 30 at 2022 8:58 PM

CSM Bob Stanek — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:58:56 -0400

SFC Private RallyPoint Member In simple terms, they shouldn't get a penny for the "alleged" disability. Too many scamming the system when real cases exist for loss of limbs and actual PTSD cases. In my opinion, there are few exceptions (for example, individuals who worked in mortuary affairs and received the bodies of those fallen service members or cleaned the bodies to prep for burial) is just one example. Beyond that, individual cases would need to be reviewed and approved by a panel of veterans who service (both combat and non-combat related experience) to determine if the case passes mustard. Just my opinion...

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Jul 1 at 2022 2:20 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:20:53 -0400

In performing Military Police duties in some places I've seen or experienced things that would rival some situations in a combat deployment. Fatal traffic accidents, shootings, armed assaults, murders, suicides accidental deaths and explosion in a base power station with extreme injuries and death. aircraft crashes or crimes with children as victims. I've handled all of those sort of things plus add a year in Vietnam in a Combat zone. After over 40 years of Law Enforcement both Military and Civilian there aren't a lot of things I'd never seen. I've attended far too many funerals of fellow Police Officers Who died in the line of duty, I haven't had problems with handling any of those things I saw or experienced Myself but not everyone can. The top leaders and local Commanders etc. have often done what they could to help people that had to deal with job or personal stresses and see they got the help they needed. This isn't Leaders letting things happen, if they don't react then there is a problem. Do those in Leadership have to sort out legitimate problem from acting ? Yes, they do and it's not always a simple process . Stressful Mental health situations aren't just limited to War zones and I've seen enough people have problems handling PTSD in both stateside as well as overseas deployments. If You haven't seen or been exposed to some of the things Me and others in My profession as well as other emergency services people Your perhaps fortunate but these thing can happen anywhere !

Response by SSG James Knopp made Jul 5 at 2022 12:30 AM

SSG James Knopp — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 00:30:26 -0400

PTSD is a real mental handicap for those who have to deal with it on a day to day basis.
That being said, how can the VA justify letting someone who has never been deployed, unless a traumatic injury happened while on duty or in training even consider awarding the benefit. PTSD has become the “buzzword” for soldiers looking for easy money. Just because a soldier has been deployed, even in a combat zone, does not necessarily qualify them for this benefit. And here again, unless they were subject to some unforeseen incident or duress while serving wherever. In reality only about 20% of our warfighters ever seen combat up close. For those 20% PTSD is a nightmare in hell and they should be given what they deserve, both medically and monetary.
As for the undeserving....get to the back of the line or get a job!

Response by SSG Christopher Walcott made Jul 11 at 2022 8:32 PM

SSG Christopher Walcott — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:32:05 -0400

The very first thing you have to remember is that PTSD is not—and never has been—specific to combat. The key letter in the acronym is the “T”—traumatic. It’s very possible (and common) to develop PTSD from life events that have nothing to do with your military service, and your soldiers should never been treated differently because their PTSD claim isn’t related to a deployment.

Response by Sgt Ed Allen made Jul 14 at 2022 1:25 PM

Sgt Ed Allen — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 13:25:07 -0400

It can be VERY real.

My wife, who never served a day in uniform, suffers from PTSD. She was a respiratory therapist for 20 years. If you don't know what that is, she was the person who puts people on a ventilator and tries to get you to start breathing on your own again. She was also the person who, when the family said to let a loved one go, had to take them off the vent and watch as they died.

My wife was a damned good RT until she removed life support for a son of a previous patient that she had done the same thing for 15 years earlier. She was unaware of this until the family thanked her for taking such good care and treating the family with much sympathy.

Less than 2 months later, it hit her like a brick wall. Months of deep depression, 2 attempts to kill herself. Loss of her job because she could no longer function and, now, almost 13 years of recovery.

PTSD is not just for combat vets. It can manifest after any psychic trauma. In other words, it is very real.

Thank God, I'm not one of them.

Response by SSG Nathan Blair made Jul 14 at 2022 3:28 PM

SSG Nathan Blair — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:28:08 -0400

I don't know about today's new "stress free" basic, but in the 80s and 90s you had real basic training, with shark attacks, surprise wakeup, surprise inspections, random smoking sessions etc. If you went through basic then or before you definitely have PTSD, it's what gives you the fight or flight reaction. If you hear the creak of a drill sergeants shoe 2 floors below, you definitely have PTSD.

Response by Col Dan Ketter made Jul 27 at 2022 8:00 PM

Col Dan Ketter — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 20:00:22 -0400

The con game never seems to end when it comes to enlisting sympathy or money.

Response by SN Orrin Donohoe made Aug 1 at 2022 1:10 PM

SN Orrin Donohoe — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 13:10:03 -0400

I was set on fire while deployed. no ptsd

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made Aug 19 at 2022 3:35 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:35:21 -0400

We all go through things in life. PTSD doesn't have to be in a war zone. It can be seeing your best friend die in front of you or an accident you saw on the highway. My opinion we shouldn't judge this. This is why they have experts out there that can tell if your lying or not. Again you dont have to be in a war zone in order to claim ptsd

Response by PO2 Timothy Hinds made Sep 8 at 2022 1:33 PM

PO2 Timothy Hinds — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 13:33:41 -0400

There are many occasions where one experiences near death fear, which can result in PTSD. I had a friend who was the only survivor, 3 times of helicopter crashes while serving stateside in the Navy in the 60’s. Do you think he wasn’t messed up? Add to that survivors guilt which is also a common component in PTSD and you have a recipe for a PTSD diagnosis. I experienced several very scary moments while flying crew on P2v’s. Three times I was white knuckled praying to God we could land safely before we crashed. I was not so affected by this to claim PTSD, but I can see where others might be. There were a few guys almost losing it and never flew again. I was lucky, it doesn’t make me better than them. Just different. I continued flying but the thought was always there, “maybe this time things will end differently “. So combat isn’t a requirement for PTSD. Fear of a given situation, sufficient to cause severe mental trauma is. If you work in a dangerous environment ,sooner or later you will face something hair raising.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 9 at 2022 2:59 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 14:59:11 -0400

I for one was never deployed. We had an SGT get a Section 8 and was going around different Armories and stealing Arms. I personally was shot, at twice! Not to mention being picked on all my life because of my name. Ask yourself? What would I feel like to have to fist fight almost every day of your life? I would have to say, it depends on the situation!

Response by TSgt David Olson made Sep 16 at 2022 2:36 AM

TSgt David Olson — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 02:36:02 -0400

Whoa. What about fireman, police officers and many others. PTSD is not confined to combat in the military. Better do a little research on PTSD before making assumptions not based in fact. I’m rated 100% for PTSD, granted I served a 13 month tour in Korea, 10 years after the armistice. I followed up with 12 months in Vietnam. Can I pinpoint the exact moment that I developed PTSD, no. Civilians can almost always date the day when their traumatic experience occurred. As has been said, it is unique to the individual.

Response by Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns made Dec 8 at 2022 12:50 PM

Cpl Dr Ronnie Manns — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 12:50:23 -0500

Having in this field for over 40 years, I have discovered that all and any mental health condition is not always the direct result of one thing or another. All are based totally upon events that happened in your life that you do not have the "why" and "how" answers for. It begins as an illness more easily managed but the longer it goes without being addressed or diagnosed, it grows into a disorder which is now not so easily managed. There are some civilians now receiving this PTSD diagnosis for getting a divorce so is it fair to have a line for service members and not civilians, I don't know.