United Cerebral Palsy released a study last week that ranks disability services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in every state as well as the District of Columbia. Texas residents may or may not be surprised to hear that Texas ranked very poorly in this report. It landed in 50th place of the 51 locations. This is a slide from the previous few years when Texas ranked 49th.
Female veterans are up against PTSD challenges
Many military service members who return to Texas after active duty suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder; in fact, more than half a million veterans currently receive disability benefits for PTSD. While those who have PTSD may be entitled to both Social Security disability benefits and veterans' disability benefits, both the Social Security Administration and the Department of Veterans' Affairs are struggling to manage growing caseloads. This makes it very difficult for some to obtain benefits. Many female veterans face even more challenges.
Brain Injuries a Frequent Cause of Disabilities
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. The message of the Brain Injury Association of America's campaign is that brain injuries can happen to anyone, anywhere at anytime. According to the organization, 3.1 million Americans have a permanent disability caused by a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some individuals with TBIs may be unable to work and qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
February is American Heart Month
Most of us have someone in our family who has experienced heart disease. With one out of three deaths in the United States attributed to heart disease or stroke, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in America. Heart and circulatory conditions are also one of the leading causes of disability, preventing individuals from being able to work and provide for themselves and their families.
American Lung Association Pushes for COPD Awareness
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - also known as emphysema or chronic bronchitis - is one of the most common lung diseases in the United States. However, it is estimated that up to half of Americans suffering from COPD are unaware that they have the condition. To help increase the number of those afflicted who ultimately get treated, the American Lung Association has declared November "COPD Awareness Month."
The First Week of October is Mental Illness Awareness Week
October 2nd through the 9th 2011 is designated by the United States Congress as Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW). Several activities across the country are planned to provide information and raise awareness about mental health, as well as reduce the stigma that sometimes prevents people from seeking the treatment they need.
Understanding COPD
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and the term refers to a group of the most common and most destructive lung diseases. Currently over 12 million people are diagnosed with COPD, and it is a major cause of disability and the third leading cause of death nationwide.
