Depression decisions — 2015

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including major depressive disorder and migraine headaches, have rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.

The Board found no evidence to support the Veteran's claims of service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder other than PTSD and denied both issues.

The Veteran's additional psychiatric disabilities, including depression and substance abuse dependence, are caused by his service-connected PTSD.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's non-PTSD acquired psychiatric disorders, including depression and anxiety disorder, are not related to his military service. The diagnoses stem from childhood stressors and events prior to his active duty.

The Veteran's appeal was denied for service connection of an acquired psychiatric disorder, bilateral hearing loss, low back disorder, and rheumatoid arthritis. The Veteran also had his request to reopen previously denied claims for service connection for rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulders, knees, feet, elbows, hands, and neck denied.

The Veteran's tinnitus is service-connected as it is related to his in-service noise exposure during active duty.

The Board has determined that there is insufficient evidence to establish service connection for any of the claimed conditions, including alcoholism. The Veteran's available post-service records do not support his claims.

The Board has remanded the case for a new VA examination to determine the nature and etiology of any currently found acquired psychiatric disorder, including major depressive disorder. The Veteran's claim will be adjudicated again based on all evidence of record.