The men and women who serve or have served in the U.S. military are owed much respect and gratitude. For more than a decade, thousands of U.S. troops have returned from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan bearing the physical and mental wounds and scars that often accompany war. For these brave veterans, their lives and abilities to re-enter civilian life has typically been severely affected.
Many veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan returned home prematurely. Some suffered physical injuries related to the explosion of an improvised explosive device. Having suffered lost limbs and traumatic brain injuries, these men and women often suffer severe physical and mental impairments that make it difficult to get around, perform simple tasks, and learn and recall information.
In recent years, large numbers of returning U.S. troops have also been plagued by another type of disabling condition. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, post traumatic stress disorder may result in the wake of involvement in a traumatic event. The debilitating effects of PTSD often make is difficult or impossible to function normally. Veterans with PTSD may experience or develop depression, memory loss, anxiety, fear, insomnia and intense anger.
For U.S. veterans who have received a "disability compensation rating of 100 percent" by the U.S. Veterans Association, Social Security disability benefits may be awarded. The Social Security Administration recently announced its decision to expedite the SSD applications of veterans who have been assessed and have a 100 percent disability rating. Money awarded via SSD benefits can help U.S. veterans afford basic necessities while focusing on obtaining help and treatment for their injuries.