Anxiety decisions — 2013

The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD. However, after reviewing all evidence of record and considering the criteria for service connection, the Board finds that there is no competent medical evidence to support a finding that the Veteran has PTSD or any other acquired psychiatric disorder related to his military service.

The Veteran's appeal of service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including anxiety and a sleep disorder, has been withdrawn by his representative.

The Veteran's anxiety reaction with depressive features is currently evaluated at 50 percent, reflecting significant impairment in occupational and social functioning.

The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim for service connection and granted it, finding that new and material evidence has been received to support his claims of PTSD, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder.

The Board has deferred the decision on the pending claims until the claim for service connection for a low back disability is finally adjudicated. Additional evidence submitted since April 2009 will be considered.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including bipolar disorder, is being remanded due to the need for additional development of his claims file. This includes obtaining VA and private treatment records, service personnel records, and SSA records. A VA examination will also be conducted.

The Veteran's death was not caused by a disease or injury incurred in or aggravated by service, nor did any such disease or injury contribute substantially or materially to his death.