DAV PTSD Brochure

Serious stress reactions can interfere with optimal
functioning in many ways. They can lead to deterioration
in family and social relationships and interfere with work
and school. This, in turn, can cause financial crises. A
comprehensive rehabilitation plan is often necessary
to assure full recovery. Clinical treatment of the stress
disorder and other co-occurring disorders are necessary
parts of a larger, overall rehabilitation plan. Comprehensive
rehabilitation, however, will often also require vocational
assistance, education and training and at least temporary
financial support during the rehabilitation process.
The American people, acting through their elected
representatives, have recognized their responsibility to
provide comprehensive readjustment and rehabilitation
services for veterans who have served and sacrificed for
their country. An array of federal veterans benefits are
available and can be integral to a rehabilitation plan.
Additional assistance may also be available through state
and local community resources.
Recognizing that these benefits must be readily available
when the veteran requires them, the government has
collaborated with veterans service organizations, such
as DAV, to provide guidance and help in accessing vital
services. A DAV National Service Officer or Transition
Service Officer stands ready to provide expert assistance
in applying for and accessing such services and benefits.
The service officer can help you, your family and the
clinicians working with you to put together the pieces of
a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
James Blake
Miller, the
“Marlboro
Marine,”
became an
icon of the
gritty American
warrior in
a picture
published
worldwide.
After leaving
the Marines, he
was treated for
post-traumatic
stress disorder
and depression.
11