Submitting a Stressor Statement for VA PTSD Claim
July 07, 2022
Those seeking VA disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”) may need to submit a “stressor statement.” Stressor statements refer to a written description of the claimant’s experiences that led to the development of their PTSD. While the VA provides a “statement in support of claim” form where the claimant can write their statements, an attorney is critical in ensuring that the claimant compellingly conveys their experiences.
Certain veterans are exempt from writing a statement. For instance, Purple Heart recipients and those with a Combat Infantryman Badge or a Combat Action Ribbon may proceed without a stressor statement. However, the VA generally notifies those claimants whose application requires this statement.
Preparing a PTSD Stressor Statement
Under 38 CFR § 21.1032, the VA must assist claimants in obtaining evidence. This duty includes obtaining alternative evidence such as military, law enforcement, mental health, buddy, or lay statements. However, in practice, claimants and their attorneys often bear this significant burden. As such, veterans must prepare a persuasive and well-grounded statement.
It is beneficial for claimants to have their military records easily accessible to prepare a stressor statement. These records often aid veterans in pinpointing the dates and times of certain events. In addition to service records, any evidence or sources of information from the stressful time or about the stressor is beneficial to the claim. For instance, copies of emails, texts, or letters home about the event can be used to corroborate and support the statement of the stressor.
Writing a PTSD Stressor Statement
If possible, claimants should prepare the statement on a computer; this prevents confusion or delay in deciphering handwriting. In many cases, even starting the message poses challenges to claimants. An attorney can help claimants determine how best to approach these statements and advise them on the relevant identifying information the statement should include.
After introducing themselves to the reader, the claimant should describe the event chronologically. It is essential to provide the date and location of each stressful event and then describe it in as much detail as possible. In addition to the apparent facts, the claimant should provide insight into how they felt at the time of the incident.
The VA does not expect claimants to remember the precise details of each event, but the narrative should tell a story of a “before” and “after.” In other words, how the event changed the claimant regarding their military service, personal life, and activities of daily living. The veteran should include relevant treatment history and any mental health diagnoses.
Addressing Drug and Alcohol Abuse in PTSD Stressor Statements
While it is understandable why claimants may be reluctant to address their substance abuse, in many cases, this abuse stems from the veteran’s traumatizing experience. An attorney can help claimants broach this subject and connect the addiction to the precipitating stressor.
Concluding the Statement
Claimants should include a declaration at the end of their statement. This declaration should have a certification that the claimant certifies that the information is accurate and correct to the best of their knowledge.
Do You Need Help Preparing a PTSD Stressor Statement?
If you are experiencing PTSD from your military service, contact Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC, to discuss what VA benefits you may be entitled to. In addition to assisting with PTSD stressor statements, our veterans’ attorneys assist families in all federal veteran benefit cases. The firm handles disability claims involving aid and attendance or housebound status, sexual assault, traumatic brain injury, hearing loss, mental health disability, orthopedic disabilities, and VA unemployability. In addition to new claims, our office handles reconsiderations, increases, and appeals. Contact our office at 1-800-693-4800 to schedule an initial consultation with an attorney on our team.