Anxiety decisions — 2011

The Veteran's appeal is remanded due to the need for a current VA examination and updated medical records, as her disability rating for depression with anxiety and panic attacks may not accurately reflect the severity of her condition.

The Veteran's anxiety disorder has resulted in episodes of depression, anxiety, and sleep impairment but not to the extent that would warrant a higher rating. The current 50 percent rating adequately reflects his disability.

The Board has determined that additional development is necessary prior to adjudication of the Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired anxiety disorder, including PTSD. The case is REMANDED for further action.

The Veteran's claim for higher initial ratings for his service-connected generalized anxiety disorder and depressive disorder is denied. The RO granted a 30 percent rating effective January 25, 2008, but the Veteran now seeks an increased rating.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a VA psychiatric examination and readjudication of his claims. The acquired psychiatric disorder claim will include consideration of PTSD as well as other diagnosed conditions such as anxiety disorder, dysthymic disorder, schizophrenia, and psychosis NOS. The right eye disorder claim requires scheduling of the Veteran for a Travel Board hearing.

The evidence supports the diagnosis of PTSD in accordance with DSM-IV, and links it to a claimed in-service stressor. The Veteran's current psychiatric disorders are therefore service-connected.

The Board found that the Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorders, including PTSD, were not incurred in or aggravated by service. The low back disorder was also not related to service.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for a VA examination to determine if the Veteran's current psychiatric disorders are related to his service, including any in-service symptoms and alcohol abuse.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including adjustment disorder and depression/anxiety, is being remanded due to the need for additional development.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's original claim of service connection for a psychological disability was pending since its submission in October 1985. The January 2004 rating decision granting service connection and establishing an effective date of December 30, 2002 is found to be the product of clear and unmistakable error.

The Board has remanded the case for a Travel Board hearing, as requested by the Veteran's representative. The appeal is currently in a pending state.

The Board has granted service connection for anxiety and major depressive disorders, reopening the claim previously denied in 1967. The Veteran's psychiatric conditions are found to be related to his military service.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining Dr. Morgan's treatment records and scheduling a VA examination.

The Veteran's claims for PTSD and a psychiatric disorder other than PTSD were denied, while his claim for an increased rating for the residual scar of left inguinal hernia was granted at a 10% disability level.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including VA examinations to assess the severity of his service-connected disabilities and their impact on employment. The claims are also being held in abeyance regarding a TDIU claim.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depression is likely due to his service in Iraq, and thus grants service connection for this condition.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's psychiatric disorder, including schizophrenia and PTSD, did not begin in service or is otherwise related to his military service. The neurological disorder affecting both feet and toes also does not meet the criteria for service connection.

The Board has remanded the case for further development due to incomplete compliance with prior remand directives and pending adjudication of claims.

The Board has granted the petition to reopen the claim of service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD. The claim is now considered on its merits.

The Board has granted service connection for right wrist strain and an anxiety disorder, not otherwise specified (with secondary dysthymia), both found to be related to ADT service.