Anybody struggling with PTSD?

[J. Holden]

I am reaching out to my fellow veterans with the above question.

I am currently a firefighter/paramedic.  I have been at my current department for 15 yrs.  I have a friend and former Captain on the department that was recently denied a line-of-duty pension.  He is struggling with PTSD.

He was denied on the basis that he didn't have all the signs and symptoms of PTSD.

My question is what can I do to help him?  He's in therapy, taking medications, but I just am wondering what can I do?  What does he need from a friend?  I'm not looking to "cure" him, just support him.

It's difficult because sometimes I just don't know what to say.  Our one strong common bond was work and he doesn't want to hear about it anymore.  I get it but it makes for some quiet moments.

If anyone can give me some pointers I'd really appreciate it.  I just hate to see this man struggle like he does.

-Jeremy  

[M60gunner]

Was his interview conducted by a physiological doc or a board? How long was his interview, anything less than 1 hr. Is not fair to him. it takes a while with people that have deep depression to show it. They usually put up a facade to others to help them coup.

[J. Holden]

Thank you for responding M60.  The kicker is he was interviewed by 6 different psychologists.  5 of which the village and pension board chose.  5 out of the 6 doctors said he had PTSD but that with time he could overcome it and return to work.

He is going to appeal his ruling.  In the meantime I'm trying to make myself available to him so when he reaches out I'm there to listen/support him.  He has his good days and bad.  Seems mostly good.

-Jeremy  

[mike g]

An appeal can take 5 years....I know, I'm waiting on mine.