Suicide Scars?

[BlastDaddy]

A few years ago my PTSD was so intense I attempted suicide twice. First by drug overdose and then two months later by slicing my wrists. "Stupid on my part"!

My two questions are;

1. Has anyone ever heard of a way to have the scars corrected so they don't look so bad?

2. Since I did slice my wrist during a PTSD panic attack would they be eligible for compensation secondary to a service connected condition?

Would really be interested in a way to correct the scars if anyone knows of a way.

[63SIERRA]

I dont know the answer brother, but I will pray for you. Everything we experience in our lives shapes who we are, we all have a burden to carry, no matter what anyone tells you. You are important, and God has a plan for your life. Dont let what has happened to you in the past, decide what you will do in the future. The scars on your body are not so important as the scars in your mind, that caused the scars on your body, your mental well being is whats important. Your scars do not define you as a Man, They only show what you have overcome... .. thanks for your service, from one veteran to another.

Edited January 21, 2015 by 63SIERRA

[georgiapapa]

BlastDaddy,

First, listen to 63SIERRA because he is giving you good solid honest advice. Healing the scars in your mind are more important than the scars on your body. However, in response to your question about service connection for your scars, I offer the following:

Google "38 USC part 4.118" which is the Schedule of Ratings used by the VA for Skin Disabilities and it includes the ratings for scars. I may be wrong but I believe scars caused during a suicide attempt by a veteran with PTSD could be service connected as secondary to PTSD. However, there is a criteria which must be met to receive a compensable rating as you will see in 38 USC 4.118. Several things are taken into consideration including the length, width, location, type of scar, etc. Unless your wrist scars are unusually long, wide and deep, you may not meet the criteria for a compensable rating. Please read 38 USC 4.118 yourself because this is just my opinion and I may be wrong.

In regards to covering your scars, since you are in priority group 1 in the VA healthcare system, ask your VA PCP for a consult with a plastic surgeon and explain to him exactly why you are making the request. If he seems hesitant to make the appointment, ask your VA mental health specialist to run interference for you with your PCP and get the appointment scheduled. If the VA does not have a plastic surgeon available, ask for approval to see a private plastic surgeon on a fee basis. If you have a VA choice card, use it if you meet the criteria.

I wish you good health and good luck with the healing of your internal scars and finding someone to cover your external scars.

Georgiapapa

[BlastDaddy]

63Sierra,

Thank you so much. You actually touched a made my day already. I don't want to sound like a sap but I was touched. I am healing inside slowly thank you very much.

Georgiapapa, thank you also. I will talk with my pcp and if doesn't work I will talk to MH. MH has been very helpful.

Instead of compensation I would rather have the scars corrected so I will look into the plastic surgeon. I look at it now and realize it was my fault I have the scars and I should not be compensated for it. It's just want to correct them. It's hard to explain to two little kids why dad has the scars on his wrist.

Sierra, thanks again.

[georgiapapa]

BigDaddy,

You are welcome.

I think your two kids will be proud of their Dad when they find out he was one of our nation's heroes. What happened to you was caused by your PTSD and nothing to be ashamed of, especially when you have taken the steps necessary to get help so you be able to live your life and be a good Dad. I hope things work out for you and your family.

Good luck and take care of yourself.

Georgiapapa.

[bionoce]

I have a similar story. And a huge scar on my face from the drug and alcohol od. I'm trying to find out if service connection for mental unsoundness during suicide attempts can be claimed. Secondary to PTSD.

[georgiapapa]

bionoce,

I don't know about the claim for "mental unsoundness during suicide attempts" but a claim for facial scar secondary to your PTSD might be a possibility depending on the circumstances. Scars of the head, face or neck usually receive a higher rating than scars on other parts of the body.

Check out 38 CFR part 4.118 for more specific info on the Schedule of Ratings for skin disabilities including scars.

Good luck and take care of yourself.

Georgiapapa