A new web forum will allow current and former service members to get in contact with health, disability, advocacy and social service organizations. The free event is similar to a convention center event, however, will take place in a virtual environment.
Those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may find a convention center expo overwhelming with crowds of people and loud noises. The stigma associated with a disability may also stop veterans from attending an in-person convention event, so the new approach is a means to reach more veterans who may be struggling with a disability.
The web forum allows for a virtual environment where veterans can ask questions anonymously. Today, September 27, 2012, the first of these events will occur from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (CST). Attendees can chat from their own homes, a coffee shop or anywhere with wireless internet access.
After attendees register, they can get information on where to get treatment for an illness and how to navigate the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Representatives from 15 national nonprofit groups, including the Brain Injury Association of America, the Invisible Disabilities Association and National Alliance on Mental Illness will be available.
All veterans are at a higher risk of developing PTSD from traumatic events witnessed while in service. It is also common that those suffering PTSD may also suffer from anxiety disorder, depression and bipolar disorder. Help is available and veterans disability compensation may be available because of PTSD or a mental health disorder.
Source: NBCNews.com, “Web expo for veterans with disabilities to offer roadmap for VA navigation,” Bill Briggs, Sept. 26, 2012
For more on this topic, please visit our VA mental impairments and psychiatric disabilities webpage.
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