Most (not all, by any means) folks with PTSD will not even discuss the possibility for years, even while they are involved in treatment for same. That "Joe" is claiming PTSD does raise several red flags, including the possibility of a variant of "survivor's guilt". That you are certain that he spent all of his military time in a non-combat area makes that possibility even more possible - although my mention of it should not be taken in any way as an actual diagnosis.It may also be his [unhealthy] way of trying to compensate for feelings of "worthlessness" for not having been assigned to a combat area. Many REMFs in combat zones are disturbed in some way(s) by not having been at the point of the spear and feel that their service in support roles was not deserving of the recognition many are giving to servicemen.
This is the reason I am asking these questions before going off half-cocked without a clue as to how PTSD works, etc. I figured you guys would have some insight. And like I said, "I am very hesitant," to do anything for lack of fully understanding the situation.
The question I have for you is what you want to accomplish by exposing "Joe" - other than that he is possibly a liar. You will need direct info on why he is receiving VA benefits in order to challenge the legitimacy of the award, and you may have a very difficult time, if possible at all, in getting that info from anyone but "Joe" himself. But if you want to press the issue, go ahead and risk libel/slander repercussions as well as the general approbation of your friends and family unless you are completely right.
The only reason I have for bringing the issue to light is that there are other service men and women out there with "legitimate" (as per my previously lacking definition) PTSD. There is nothing in it for me personally other than risking the aforementioned repercussions.
On the other hand, you might want to sit down with "Joe" and explain why you are having trouble believing all of his claims because of the inconsistencies of his story and the rash of false claims being exposed around the country. Or you could find out who he says he is seeing about the PTSD and contact them with your concerns based on a real desire to help "Joe" deal with his mental health, as indicated by his to you unbelievable story about his military service and disability.
On the third hand, you could sit back, having as little to do with "Joe" as you decide, and watch to see if he implodes on his own.
The latter option was what I have decided to do up to this point, and in all likelihood, will be what I do. I just wanted to get other opinions concerning the issue and be more at ease with that course of action.
My question to you is: why do you believe that PTSD can only be caused by exposure to combat? I've known people who experience(d) PTSD just from being asked to justify their beliefs.
Well in this case, I read a document in which "Joe" was asked to describe the cause of PTSD. He never answered the question in the page and a half answer. He only listed what his symptoms were repeatedly. That, coupled with his lack of character and his propensity to lie, made me very suspicious. He has definitely been lying about his injury that got him discharged. Before I had my accident, we were working out together at the gym a few days a week and he said he was exaggerating his claims and if the knew he was working out his benefits would be cut.
Honestly, I don't know everything there is to know about PTSD, by any means. Nor do I pretend to. But I was hoping you guys would shed some light on the subject before/if I actually took any action. That is why I ask. I know that a man's reputation is at stake and I do not take that lightly. I'm very careful to treat others with the respect that they deserve. I hope I have made it clear that this is not something I am approaching with trepidation and apprehension.
Regards
