Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior in Veterans
Service members and Veterans suffering from trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress may struggle with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Suicidal Ideation is the most dangerous symptom veterans suffer from leading to an average of over 17 deaths per day.
If you are struggling with suicidal behavior or thoughts, please immediately contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255.
If a veteran in your life is showing suicidal signs, then reach out now. The best way to prevent a suicide is through early intervention. It is important to reach out as early as possible.
Addressing Suicidal Thoughts in Veterans
Signs of Suicidal Behavior and Thoughts
If a Veteran in your life is showing any of these signs, they might be at risk and you should do what you can to intervene as early as possible:
- A belief they or their actions are a burden to others in their life.
- Feelings of failure, worthlessness, or that they do not deserve help or attention.
- Inwardly directed hate or anger.
- Helplessness or hopelessness about their lives.
- A feeling that life is not worth living or that the pains of life are too much to bear.
Veterans need a strong support system around them to help in overcoming these feelings and thoughts. Sometimes just being there is enough, other times the Veteran needs professional advice or assistance in overcoming the thoughts and feelings that might lead to suicide. Reaching out to a professional VA Responder can provide you with the assistance you need. Call 800-273-8255.
Birth Defects Associated with Agent Orange Exposure
Biological children of Veterans who meet qualifying service in either Korea or Vietnam and who have specific birth defects may also be eligible to receive benefits from the VA. Eligibility must be determined by the VA and would have resulted in a permanent or physical disability.
Click here for a list of the Birth Defects associated with Exposure to Agent Orange
Ischemic Heart Disease and Agent Orange Exposure
A report that linked exposure to Agent Orange and Ischemic Heart Disease was put out by the Institute of Medicine in 2008. Within two years the VA also began accepting that ischemic heart disease as one of the presumptive diseases from Agent Orange exposure. This means that Veterans who suffer from ischemic heart disease who were exposed to Agent Orange as part of their service should automatically be entitled to benefits from the VA.
The VA announced that some Veterans or their surviving spouses may be entitled to retroactive benefits if they have ischemic heart disease. If benefits were previously denied, then an appeal should be submitted immediately to ensure the claim is reviewed. This should especially be done if the denial happened prior to 2010.
If the veteran passed away due to ischemic heart disease, then any surviving spouses, dependant children, or dependant parents may qualify for compensation from the VA.
Denied Benefits from the VA?
Did the VA deny you the benefits you are entitled to? If so you must file your appeal as quickly as possible. There is a limited time to submit the required evidence and the VA is strict timelines and requirements they adhere to.
Are you one of the thousands of Veteran’s Claims that have been denied by the VA? Have you received a decision that is lower than you expected? As a Veteran who has served your country, YOU should receive Disability Benefits.
If you were injured and haven’t received the VA benefits you deserve, please call Chad Barr Law today at (407) 599-9036 and discuss your case with an experienced Orlando Veterans Benefits Attorney, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.
