Hey everyone,
I am new to Hadit.com and I first wanted to say that this is by far the most informative information I have read to date regarding this entire process. I was just awarded 20% Service Connected Disability. 10% for tinnitus and 10% for TBI.
So about me - I served as an MP in Iraq from 2006-2007. Durning my time there I was invovled in an ambush against my squad were a couple Soldiers were injured. I was first to react to the situation under fire, and was able to render aid and provide cover fire. I was awarded with a BSM-V for my actions as well as 2 others from my squad. I was also exposed to mulitple fire fights and numerous IED exposures.
I have never been "formally treated" for PTSD. After the event, I was seen by the chaplain regarding the situation and that was about it. At the time I really didnt want to talk about it or relive the sitaution.
I deloyed again in 2010 to Afganistan and working in the detainee center. Nothing like the first deployment, but still standing face to face with detainees.
Unlike some of my battle buddies I deployed with - I have been able to keep a steady job, and go to school full time, while some of them struggle since our Iraq delopyment.
My wife and family says that since my deloyment - I have changed. I have "quirks" as they like to call them such as not being able to sit with my back to anyone, always have to maintain a visual of a door, i have a hard time around fireworks and begin to get anxious. I also get very iratable when driving. All of these have heavily increased since my deployment.
Becaue I have never been treated formally for PTSD - and nothing have been formally documented regarding treatment is it possible to file for PTSD? What type of information would be benefical as far as documentation?
Will the VA try to link my TBI and PTSD together?
Any input would be greatly appercaited.