Legal Question in Veterans Law in Connecticut

VA Disability Question

During basic training I had a seizure that landed me in the hospital, there I had a mental breakdown and attempted to take my life, I saw a psychiatrist who diagnosed me with major depressive disorder and I was medically discharged from the Army.

They claimed that the major depressive disorder was a preexisting condition. They might be correct on that but I feel that it definitely aggravated it.

After being medically discharged I was later also dignosed with PTSD, which I believe stems from what happened while I was in the Army.

I am currently collecting state disability for major depressive disorder and PTSD.

Would I or should I qualify for and military disability?


Asked on 12/18/08, 3:30 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Patrick Tracy Patrick J. Tracy, Esq, P.E.,

Re: VA Disability Question

If you are not able to work, the first avenue that I would attempt to collect would be disability under Social Security.

You must prove that your military service was the cause or exacerbated your condition. You need extrinsic proof either by medical diagnosis or statements by your fellow soldiers that something happened in training.

I have represented many combat veterans from the Vietnam era and even after a year in Vietnam that is documented, they have a hard time receiving benefits for this type of injury.

Therefore, I believe that your burden of proof is significant, but can be achieved. I would contact one of the service groups such as PVA or DAV to assist you with the application.

Good Luck!

Read more
Answered on 12/18/08, 3:44 pm
Jill Mitchell-Thein Heard & Smith, LLP

Re: VA Disability Question

You should most definitely file a claim with the VA asap if you haven't already. Explain everything you just said here and keep fighting. If you get denied, keep appealing. Feel free to email me if you have any more questions.

Read more
Answered on 12/18/08, 4:00 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Veterans Law questions and answers in Connecticut