Anxiety Board decisions

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for a new VA psychiatric examination to determine the etiology of any diagnosed acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD.

The Veteran's anxiety disorder and depression have been service-connected based on the evidence of record, with no indication that any specific exposure basis applies.

The Veteran's PTSD was rated at 50 percent prior to May 10, 2017 and increased to 70 percent thereafter. Depression and anxiety disorder were also considered but did not warrant separate ratings.

The Veteran's service-connected depression and anxiety have been rated at a 70 percent disability level since April 14, 2011. The Board found that the symptoms of social isolation, crying spells, irritability, sleep impairment, and depressed mood resulted in deficiencies in most areas.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's mood/depressive disorder is caused by his service-connected PTSD and alcohol use disorder, and thus grants service connection for this condition.

The Veteran is seeking service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD. The case has been remanded to determine if any diagnosed psychiatric disorders existed prior to service and were aggravated during service.

The Veteran is granted a rating of 70 percent for his psychiatric disability, effective May 27, 2014. The Board also grants entitlement to TDIU.

The Veteran's anxiety disorder is currently rated at 30 percent, effective March 6, 2009. The Board finds that the evidence does not support a higher rating as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 30 percent.

The Board denied the reopening of a previously denied claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, finding that new and material evidence had not been received to support the claim.

The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disability, including PTSD, anxiety disorder, and depressive disorder, is attributable to service. The Board finds that the Veteran has a current diagnosis of these conditions and there is medical evidence linking them to her in-service experiences.

The Board has granted service connection for PTSD and remanded the issues of psychiatric disorders other than PTSD and TDIU.

The Veteran's PTSD and anxiety disorder have resulted in occupational and social impairment with occasional decreases in work efficiency, but not to the extent warranting a higher evaluation.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including anxiety, stress, depression, sleep disorder, nightmares, and PTSD is being remanded due to the need for a VA examination.

The Veteran's appeal for service connection for bilateral foot tendonitis has been withdrawn. The case is being remanded to obtain additional information and evidence regarding the Veteran's psychiatric disorders.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining VA treatment records and verifying stressor allegations. A psychiatric examination is also required.

The Board has granted service connection for Bipolar Disorder, finding that it was incurred in service. However, the claim of service connection for PTSD with anxiety and depression is denied as there is no link between the current symptoms and an in-service stressor.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining VA treatment records and SSA disability benefits records. A supplemental VA medical opinion is also needed to determine if the Veteran has a current psychiatric disorder distinct from PTSD that is medically linked to her symptoms during active service.

The Veteran's major depressive disorder and anxiety disorder have been granted a 70 percent rating, effective from the date of service connection. The Board also found that he is unemployable due to his service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's claim for service connection of an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD, depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorder due to military sexual trauma is being remanded for additional development.

The Board has determined that further development is needed to determine the nature and etiology of any current acquired psychiatric condition, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Additionally, a VA examination is required to determine if chronic fatigue syndrome is related to service.