Substance use disorder - 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claims

Effects of the 9/11 attacks on mental health and substance use disorder

Substance use disorders (SUD) are most closely related to mental illness, especially after traumatic events like the 9/11 attacks. People who resort to substances like drugs and alcohol are usually those diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Initially, substances may seem to relieve symptoms of mental illnesses temporarily. However, more often than not, substances worsen mental health problems over the long term, causing dependence and additional psychological stress.

Studies about trauma and substance abuse have proved that first responders, nearby residents, and workers near Ground Zero are more at risk of developing SUDs. The stress and emotional toll of 9/11, further complicated by the persistent difficulties encountered by those affected, can trigger or intensify existing mental health disorders. The worse the trauma, the higher the probability of resorting to substance use as a means of coping.

The following are the most common mental health issues connected to SUDs after traumatic events:

• anxiety
• depression
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• bipolar disorder
• attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• personality disorders

Mental health disorders and SUDs often go hand-in-hand. With this, it’s important to know that both must be treated to break the cycle. If you or someone you know is affected by these mental health issues and has a substance use disorder due to the trauma of 9/11, contact our attorneys.

9/11 Victim Compensation Fund: What to know about substance use disorder claims

While the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund primarily compensates for physical health conditions, individuals with substance use disorders linked to exposure to the attack may be eligible for compensation. For non-cancerous health conditions, compensation can reach up to $90,000 for pain and suffering.

However, the actual compensation amounts will vary from person to person. It usually depends on the level of severity of the disorder and other individual circumstances. A person’s compensation is very likely to be greater in cases that are more severe or long-term. The calculation of VCF compensation takes these factors into account.