Moreover, one of the side benefits of utilizing Vet Center programs is the education you get from other veterans about the benefits process.  Vet Center environments are much more relaxed then VA run programs.  Veterans are free to discuss issues related to benefits in an open forum.  We know of many veterans who have attempted to secure PTSD benefit for years.  Once engaged in the Vet Center program these veterans went from 0% rating, to 60% rating and more.                 PTSD Residential Treatment Programs          Veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD have great leverage in increasing their ratings.  If you are less than 100% service-connected for PTSD, talk to your VA psychiatrist, psychologist or Vet Center therapist about PTSD residential programs.  If you can get away from work or home for 6-7 weeks, one of many inpatient PTSD residential programs may be of interest to you.  Such programs reimburse you at 100% while you are in the program, and some will pay travel reimbursement.              The programs are designed to provide you with additional strategies for living with PTSD.  One might assume that such programs are emotionally and psychological intense.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  One veteran put it this way; “I loved my time in Little Rock.  It was a 7-week respite.  I had my own room, we had daily outings to local restaurants and movie theatres.  I made some great arts and craft items.  It was great!  I want to go back.”                    MST Veterans           Recently, the VA has recognized Military Sexual Trauma (MST) as a compensable condition. Due to the sensitive nature of this condition it is obvious as to why this issue does not require any documentation.  Also, one might be surprised to learn that many men have been diagnosed with this compensable condition.            Common trauma that arises from MST issues is rape and sexual harassment.  Many women feared reporting such events while in uniform for fear of jeopardizing their careers.  Years later, these stories are being reported to VA staff, and men and women are being compensated in large numbers.  Many receive ratings of 70% and more in a matter of just a few months.            We have learned that military men have reported rape, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse events.  For instance, one young Marine reported that members in his unit attempted to insert carrots in his anus as part of some tacit hazing ritual.  Of course, no one can prove or disprove this event.  Nonetheless, he now receives 100% service-connected compensation.             Bottom line, if you have been sexually abused or think you may have been sexually abused report it as soon as possible.  Also, make sure and report to your Veteran Service Officer (VSO) that you are interested in a claim for MST.             MST compensation is ridiculously easy to secure.  No one will ever question you about your story.  No one!            Most Vet Centers have specially trained counselors who work with MST clients.  They want to help you get compensated for your trauma. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |