People who serve in the U.S. military sacrifice so much as a result of their service. Their safety and lives are put in danger and they give up the stability of being at home with their families in order to protect this country. Unfortunately, this sacrifice doesn’t end just because a person’s time in the military ends.
Millions of veterans leave the military with physical and emotional scars that stay with them for the rest of their lives. Many of these people struggle to ask for the help they may desperately need and deserve, especially when it comes to disabling emotional problems that cannot be seen. Veterans and their family members should be aware of some signs that serious and immediate help may be necessary.
After leaving the military, veterans can struggle enormously to readjust to civilian life. They can also find it difficult to get past the trauma and anxiety experienced as a soldier. This can lead to or exacerbate feelings of depression and/or other mental disorders.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, medical help may be essential when someone starts exhibiting troubling signs including:
- Thinking or talking about or attempting suicide
- Using drugs or alcohol in excess
- Dramatic and/or sudden mood changes
- Seeking out and participating in reckless, risky activities
- Significant changes in sleeping habits
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Lashing out in rage or anger
- Withdrawing from friends, family members and activities previously enjoyed
If someone is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, it can be vital that he or she get medical attention, counseling and perhaps medication to help them cope with and treat certain conditions.
Getting help for physical and mental issues suffered as a result of military service can be crucial. However, it can also be important to seek help for the financial challenges veterans and their families face after leaving the military, which can make an already-stressful situation even worse. By seeking the help of an experienced attorney, you can have an easier time navigating the benefits systems and get the support you need to pursue maximum compensation.