https://www.medlegal360.com/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/
Something which we often simplify and debase as stress. It’s
about post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD). It develops in response to a traumatic incident
like an accident, workplace injury, or physical abuse. Such traumatic events
could make an individual feel afraid, shocked, and powerless. Serious injury,
death and sexual violation can trigger post traumatic disorder.
Symptoms of PTSD
Physical symptoms of PTSD include headaches, sweating and
shivering, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and a loss of immunity.
Direct trauma experience like truck accidents,
motorcycle
accidents, bicycle
accidents, fatal
car accidents, witnessing the event, learning about the traumatic event
sustained by a close relative or friend, and repeated exposure to distressing
details of the trauma may all trigger PTSD. It may result in distressing
recollections of the traumatic event, vivid nightmares, recurring flashbacks,
and haunting dreams or nightmares. People suffering from PTSD would avoid
places or people associated with the traumatic event, or they would refuse to
discuss the event.
Diagnosis and treatment
Other mental disorders, such as major depressive disorder,
acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorder,
borderline personality disorder, and alcohol use disorder, frequently accompany
PTSD. Psychotherapy, psychological counselling, and medications are used to
treat post-traumatic stress disorder. Exposure therapy and cognitive
restructuring are used in PTSD psychotherapy. Medications include antidepressants
and anti-anxiety medications such as citalopram, amitriptyline, isocarboxazid,
and others. Support and care from loved ones would also assist the individual
in regaining his footing.
Personal injury claims for PTSD and the role of expert
testimony
In personal injury litigation, PTSD is accepted as the basis
for an emotional
distress claim. Compensation for PTSD falls under the umbrella of general
damages in personal injury law. Because mental agony is not measurable like
physical pain and suffering, damages in personal injury cases involving PTSD
must be established through expert testimony. The diagnosis of the condition is
critical in any PTSD personal injury claim. Medical documentation
also would be helpful.
An expert witness testifies about facts that would normally
be associated with PTSD. In such cases, expert witness testimony would be
presented by both the plaintiff and the defendant. The defendant's expert may
attempt to establish that the plaintiff's condition is unrelated to PTSD or
that it was pre-existing.
Worker’s comp, Veterans and PTSD
Work-related PTSD is
frequently reported in first responders such as firefighters, EMTs, police
officers, paramedics, health care workers, and others. To be eligible for workers'
compensation benefits for PTSD, a licenced physician or psychologist must
diagnose the condition in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
of Mental Disorders.
Veterans suffering from PTSD are eligible for veterans
disability compensation (VA) from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. A
qualified VA disability lawyer can assist the veteran in obtaining the
compensation.
In a PTSD claim, it is critical to consult with an attorney who understands
PTSD and its interactions with other conditions. This would assist the
plaintiff in receiving the maximum amount of benefits available.
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