Depression Board decisions

The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation for major depressive disorder was denied, and his claim for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disability was also denied.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has been submitted to reopen the veteran's claim for service connection of a chronic adjustment disorder with depression. The Board concludes that the veteran's condition is related to his active service.

The Board found that the December 22, 1981 rating decision contained clear and unmistakable error in denying service connection for major depression. The veteran's major depression was presumed to have been incurred during active duty due to its manifestation within one year of separation from service.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the need for additional development of evidence, including clarification of his military service dates and further examination of his claims.

The veteran's major depression is rated at the highest possible evaluation of 100 percent. The left knee sprain, internal derangement of the left knee, and right knee strain are all rated at the maximum available evaluations of 10 percent each. Migraine headaches with blackouts have been evaluated as 10 percent disabling.

The Board has ordered further development due to the need for additional evidence and clarification. The case is now being remanded back to the RO for a PTSD examination, among other actions.

The Board has remanded the veteran's claims for service connection due to incomplete medical records and a need for further examination.

The veteran's service-connected post-traumatic stress disorder with depression contributed to his cause of death, which was due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The VA determined that the veteran's PTSD, which is manifested by depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness, does not warrant a rating higher than 30 percent.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded to the RO for further examination and review of his claims file, including for an adequate VA examination regarding cervical spine disability and low back strain. The veteran also has raised additional issues that are not currently before the Board.

The veteran's claim for service connection for a claimed psychiatric disorder, specifically major depression, is being remanded due to the need for additional development and an opinion regarding the etiology of the condition.

The Board found that the veteran's claimed psychiatric disabilities, including PTSD and major depression, were not incurred in or aggravated by active duty service. The incurrence or aggravation of a psychosis during active duty may not be presumed.

The Board has determined that the veteran's major depression with psychotic features does not warrant a higher rating than the current 50 percent assigned since his symptoms do not meet the criteria for a higher rating.

The veteran's appeal for service connection for a left knee disability, claimed as secondary to his service-connected right knee disability, was denied. His appeals for increased ratings for depression and the right knee disabilities were also denied.

The veteran's claims for service connection for depression and a low back disorder are being remanded due to the need for additional development of his case.

The veteran's service-connected PTSD, depression, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoporosis have rendered him in need of regular aid and attendance of another person or housebound status. The Board has granted special monthly compensation based on these conditions.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining medical records and arranging for a VA examination to determine the nature and etiology of any current psychiatric conditions and residuals of heat stroke.

The Board has determined that the veteran does not have an adjustment disorder, separation disorder, or personality disorder. The service connection claims for depression and these other conditions are denied.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for additional development, including a VA examination and review of the veteran's service records.

The veteran's claims for increased ratings and TDIU are being remanded due to the need for a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge.