PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) decisions — 2017

The case is being remanded for additional examinations and assessments to determine the validity of service connection claims, including for TBI, PTSD, and headaches.

The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for PTSD is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including obtaining outstanding VA treatment records and scheduling a VA examination.

The Veteran withdrew his claim for an increased rating for PTSD, and the appeal is dismissed.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, particularly his PTSD, render him unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation. The Board finds that the evidence is at least in equipoise as to whether he can perform the physical and mental requirements of employment.

The Veteran's PTSD is rated at 50 percent since July 20, 2010, reflecting significant impairment in social and occupational functioning.

The Veteran's PTSD is rated at 70 percent, the highest available rating under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. The Board also granted TDIU based on his service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's PTSD has been rated at 70 percent since September 27, 2013. The Board granted a higher rating for the entirety of the appeal period.

The Veteran does not have a current diagnosis of PTSD for VA compensation purposes, and the Board finds that service connection is denied.

The Veteran is granted service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD, Anxiety Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder, as his symptoms are related to combat stressors during his service.

The Veteran's PTSD with depressive disorder and alcohol abuse is rated at 100 percent disabling, effective January 27, 2010. The combined evaluations of his other service-connected disabilities are 60 percent disabling.

The Board has remanded the case for a medical opinion to determine if the Veteran's psychiatric disabilities, including PTSD, are related to his service. The appeal is currently in remand status.

The Veteran's PTSD has been rated at 50 percent since June 13, 2016. The Board finds that the criteria for a higher rating are not met.

From October 21, 2010 through April 15, 2013, the Veteran's PTSD was manifested by symptoms such as depression, anxiety, occasional panic attacks, chronic sleep impairment, memory issues, mood disturbances, difficulty adapting to stressful situations, and difficulties in establishing social and work relationships. These symptoms met the criteria for a 50 percent rating.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 70 percent since June 16, 2015. The Board found that the symptoms of impaired impulse control and difficulty in establishing effective work and social relationships warrant a 70 percent rating.

The Board has determined that the Veteran meets the criteria for SMC based on the need for aid and attendance due to his service-connected disabilities, including schizophrenia and PTSD. The decision is in favor of the Veteran.

The Veteran's tension headaches with chronic fatigue are rated at 30 percent prior to October 25, 2016 and increased to 50 percent effective from October 25, 2016. The Veteran's PTSD and major depressive disorder with alcohol use is currently rated at 70 percent since August 10, 2011.,The Veteran's tension headaches with chronic fatigue are rated at 30 percent prior to March 3, 2008 and increased to 50 percent effective from March 3, 2008. The Veteran's PTSD and major depressive disorder with alcohol use is currently rated at 70 percent since August 10, 2011.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's current diagnosis of PTSD is related to an in-service personal assault and service connection for PTSD is granted.

The Veteran's appeal for an increased rating for PTSD has been withdrawn, and the case is dismissed.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities prior to February 2, 2001 did not render her unemployable.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including obtaining Social Security Administration records and updating VA outpatient records. The issue of entitlement to a total disability rating for individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities (TDIU) has also been raised.