Depression Board decisions

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for service-connected degenerative changes of the lumbosacral spine with stenosis and right myelopathy, and major depressive disorder (MDD) are being remanded due to incomplete procedures. The claim for special monthly compensation based on need for regular aid and attendance or housebound status is also being remanded as it is inextricably intertwined with the increased rating claims.

The Veteran's depression is granted as service connected. The cases of right knee disability, asthma, and obstructive sleep apnea are remanded for further development.

The Veteran's appeal for a higher initial rating of 30 percent for major depressive disorder was denied. The Board found that the evidence did not show symptoms or impairment that would warrant a higher rating.

The Veteran's claims for an increased rating for his depressive disorder and for a TDIU are being remanded due to the need for additional development. The earlier effective date claim is also being remanded.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for depression has been granted, and he is now entitled to a TDIU rating. The initial disability rating will be assigned by the RO, followed by consideration of an extraschedular TDIU rating if appropriate.

The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claim due to insufficient evidence, and a need for further examination.

The Board denied the Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD and depressive disorder with psychotic features, finding that there was no evidence of a current diagnosis of PTSD or other qualifying mental condition during service or within one year after discharge. The Veteran's symptoms were attributed to his divorce and work-related stress.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded due to the need for a VA examination and additional treatment records. The issues of service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder other than PTSD, and a higher initial rating for PTSD are also being remanded.

The Board has granted service connection for PTSD and MDD due to military sexual trauma. The Veteran's current diagnoses are related to his reported in-service stressors.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for an initial rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD and for a TDIU due to service-connected PTSD, as additional VA medical records have been added to his case file.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for lung disability, migraine headaches, and psychiatric disorder were denied in January 2010 due to lack of new and material evidence.,Service connection was also denied for a left humerus disability and multi-symptom illness.

The Board denied service connection for PTSD and major depressive disorder, finding that the Veteran did not meet the criteria for these conditions based on his in-service stressors. The VA examinations indicated that the symptoms were more consistent with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder.

The Board has granted service connection for Major Depressive Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, finding that these conditions are related to the Veteran's military service.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for an acquired psychiatric disorder and PTSD due to service-connected left shoulder disability, as well as his claim for PTSD. The case will be further evaluated with additional medical opinions and verification of stressors.

The Board has granted an effective date of August 13, 2007 for a 70 percent rating for the Veteran's psychiatric disorder, to include anxiety and depression.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for migraine headaches and an acquired psychiatric disorder (depressive disorder) due to incomplete development, including a lack of an addendum medical opinion addressing the Veteran's contentions. The AOJ is also instructed to review any new evidence submitted by the Veteran.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection due to incomplete information and a need for further examination. The claims include PTSD, a psychiatric disorder other than PTSD, and depression.

The Board denied service connection for PTSD, as well as service connection for unspecified depressive disorder and unspecified anxiety disorder. The Veteran's substance abuse disorders (alcohol and marijuana) were also not granted service connection.

The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for major depressive disorder has been dismissed due to his death.

The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorder other than PTSD, including major depressive disorder, is granted. The Veteran's PTSD claim is denied.