June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day (US). PTSD is a reaction to a traumatic event with long-lasting symptoms that disrupt a person’s life. It may lead to job loss, relationship troubles and the deterioration of one’s overall health – among other issues.
PTSD affects individuals from all walks of life depending on their life experiences. Paramedics, police officers, firefighters, veterans and other front-line employees might be affected by the work they do. But other experiences such as a sudden or traumatic accident resulting in the death of a loved one, sexual violence (including assault or abuse), still births and miscarriages later in the gestation period, and/or experiencing a serious injury may also bring on PTSD or significant symptoms of same. Other traumatic events may include natural disasters, war or conflict and being a victim of crime.
PSTD is considered a mental health disorder. Symptoms of PTSD may include re-experiencing the traumatic event through vivid nightmares, flashbacks or excessive thoughts of the event. Oftentimes, people may experience a change in their thoughts and mood – at times expressed through irritability and feeling ‘on edge’ or nervous. Some people may be startled easily, have a hard time concentrating or experience difficulties with sleep. Generally, an individual who suffers from PTSD may often feel like something terrible is about to happen and may experience a disassociation with self and their environment.
Many of the clients that I represent experience either significant symptoms of PTSD or have been diagnosed fully with PTSD and unfortunately have been denied short or long term disability benefits. Without proper care – medication, counselling and/or support groups – individuals may resort to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope. Getting the right support and treatment is paramount. Without their disability benefits, the ability to afford such treatment is next to impossible for most.
For more information or to speak about a denial of short or long term disability, please contact Brad Moscato at 416-646-7655 or bmoscato@hshlawyers.com.
