Posttraumatic stress can happen after someone goes through a traumatic event such as combat, an assault, or a disaster.  Most people have some stress reactions following trauma.  But if the reactions don't go away over time or they disrupt your life, you may have posttraumatic stress disorder.
Can I get disability benefits from the VA for posttraumatic stress disorder?
You may be able to get disability benefits if you have symptoms related to a traumatic event the stressor or your experience with the stressor is related to the PTSD symptoms, and if the stressor happened during your service, can't function as well as you once did because of your symptoms, and a doctor has given you the diagnosis.
I feel I have PTSD, but not from a time related to the time I was serving.
If your stressor occurred outside of your service time, you do not meet all of the requirements to receive benefits from the VA.
I cannot function as well as I used to as a result of a major stressor due to a very negative life event.  Can I get benefits from the VA?
You must meet each and every one of the requirements to qualify for payments.
If I am a veteran in crisis, where can I get support?
You can use the Veterans' Crisis Line which you can dial to speak to someone or there is a text number you can use to chat.  There is also a TTY number if that is a need.  You can also either dial 911 or go the nearest emergency room or VA medical center.
What does the VA consider to be a traumatic event?