Will a veteran with PTSD have problems finding a job out of the military?

Alice San — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 11:45:28 -0400

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jun 23 at 2019 11:47 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 11:47:40 -0400

I haven't. Actually I'm in a position with a company that I absolutely love. I talk to my boss about some of the challenges but the key is to understand your triggers and not let it define you.

Response by COL Gary Gresh made Jun 23 at 2019 11:53 AM

COL Gary Gresh — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 11:53:56 -0400

Great question. PTSD is a medical condition and as such not releasable to employers unless you tell them. Unfortunately a lot of employers do not understand PTSD and therefore are afraid of the diagnosis. Seek help at your VA or under the new VA OUTREACH centers. Some employers can ask you to take a physical but not until after you have been offered employment. Know the law. You do not and should not tell your medical history to any employer as it’s none if their business. If the job you are applying for requires physical lifting they can Give you a test to see if you can lift the required amount that the job entails. But you are not bound to give them any medical history other than a pre employment drug test. Ironically I believe almost every vet has done PTSD after combat engagement but it was not labeled as such until well after WWII.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made Jun 23 at 2019 12:01 PM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 12:01:49 -0400

Alice San just ensure to examine your options. Let your resume reflect your military duties. If some high stress or combat position is included, employers will know you put it on the line. They will either respect what you represent or have an issue with it. I would not say I have PTSD. But, I would let my resume say, "I put it on the line". But get involved with something that the VA offers so that you will have support mechansims in place. Best to you.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jun 23 at 2019 12:29 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 12:29:55 -0400

POssibly, maybe alot depends on the severity of the PTSD, and the employer

Response by CPL Gary Pifer made Jun 23 at 2019 1:42 PM

CPL Gary Pifer — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 13:42:23 -0400

Depends on his rating....0% to 100%....Don't forget PTSD is psych and can lead to other psychological disorders such as Bipolar...like myself, and I am way over 100%.....you can only test and see...I failed and ended up scaring many in a psychotic state....each person is different...and watch those psych drugs.... plus keep mouth shut unless required by law.... Police career.... maybe behind the scenes...most department's do extensive testing...I failed the psych test for meter maid.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Jun 23 at 2019 6:39 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Sun, 23 Jun 2019 18:39:13 -0400

I haven't. It did take me a while to find something I enjoyed though.

Response by SFC Michael D. made Jun 24 at 2019 8:47 AM

SFC Michael D. — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 08:47:43 -0400

I have PTSD and work at the State Hospital. I stay on my meds and when I feel the anxiety creeping up on me, I close my door and do some breathing exersices. I've never had an employer ask if I suffer from PTSD. My boss is a Nurse and she know because I told her. It works out because she knows my triggers and is there for me when I need to talk. Now, if you feel that you can't work because of the PTSD then note that you can't work when you put in your disability claim. Each person is different and handles it differently.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2019 9:11 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 09:11:54 -0400

There is a lot of good information already provided. The only other recommendation I have is to find a veteran support group, such as Wounded Warrior Project or Team RWB (there are plenty more), and register with them. Most of these type of groups do not mandate meetings, or even participation, but offer opportunities to meet-up and do things with people that have similar experiences as you. If work/life gets to/triggers you, it is an area of support that may be helpful. I personally think all veterans should look into and join one or more of these veteran groups.

WWP got some bad press a few years ago and there are still detractors out there but I have had a very positive experience with them and personally recommend them for understanding and working with a Veteran's issues.