ptsd Ptsd Claim

[HvyGns38]

I really do not know where to begin with my situation. I posted some of my history in another post for a hearing issue, but will give a really quick go over again.

I was medically discharged from the Marines in 1995 with left knee problems and hearing loss. Just recently was upped to 60% total from the VA. I have been dealing with issues from my experiences in Desert Storm since about 1993. I have never seen anybody regarding my issues because I have always felt that it was my problem and no one elses. Besides, we are tough and do not need any ones help, right? It has not been until the last few years that everything has gotten so bad that it takes every ounce of energy I have to function on a daily basis. I am employed, but have missed significant work time because of my issues.

Symptoms: I have recurring nightmares of some of my experiences, some happened and some my mind creates in my dreams. I sleep only about 3-4 hours most nights because once I wake up from one of these dreams it is impossible to get back to sleep. The only way I can sleep is by taking sleep medicine. I get angry easily over the stupidist things. I burst into tears in a second if I see anything that remotely reminds me of my time in the service. Movies are a terrible event. I cannot sit through any military movie (Jarhead was horrible for me). My actions and attitude has cost mme a marriage, my relationship with my daughter, and I have not been able to be in any type of relationship for over 3 months. Several of them have told me I need to get help.

I am not very sociable. I go out, but not to be with people, but around people because if I am alone it is not a good thing. Loud noises set me off everytime. I have to sit facing the door where ever I go because I need to see everyone who comes through the door. If I am left to my own means I put myself in dangerous situations because I really do not care anymore. Since getting out of the Marines, I have been through 8 or 9 different jobs and two career changes.

Here is the problem with going to the VA. Since getting out, I have accomplished getting my Bachelor's and Master's degrees. I am a HS social studies teacher and football and track coach. Will this hurt my claim or even bother with opening a claim? It takes everything I have to function in my job.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[john999]

I have a Master's degree and I was 30% for a MH claim for years. It is worth it because if it gets worse you don't have to reinvent the wheel. You can ask for an increase which is easier than starting from scratch. With PTSD even if you get 50% that would be great if you are able to work because if you have to retire on disability the next step would be to file for IU. It usually goes 30%, 50%, 70%-100%/IU. If you do have PTSD then it is worth it to file. Psychiatric care in the private sector is expensive.