PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) Board decisions

The Veteran's PTSD was manifested by symptoms such as nightmares, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, social withdrawal or isolation, depression, anger, poor judgment and insight, but without suicidal ideation, near continuous panic or depression affecting the ability to function, spatial disorientation, or neglect for personal appearance or hygiene. The criteria for a disability rating of 50 percent prior to October 30, 2012 have been met.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities meet the percentage requirements for award of a schedular TDIU, but the weight of the competent, probative evidence indicates that his service-connected disabilities do not prevent him from obtaining or retaining substantially gainful employment.

The Veteran's PTSD prior to May 17, 2010 was manifested by sleep impairment, nightmares, and infrequent suicidal ideation, resulting in reduced reliability. The deficiencies were not demonstrated.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's claim for service connection for an acquired psychiatric disorder, to include PTSD, needs further development due to incomplete compliance with previous remand directives and need for verification of certain stressors.

The Veteran's claims for higher ratings for PTSD with depression and service connection for asbestosis have been dismissed due to withdrawal. The derivative TDIU claim is remanded for further development.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to his request for a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge sitting at the RO.

The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD, and left shoulder disability are found to be service-connected. The Veteran is granted a combined rating of 50 percent for her bilateral foot disabilities.

The Board has granted service connection for PTSD, finding that the Veteran's reported stressors are consistent with his service and supported by credible evidence. The claim for an acquired psychiatric disorder other than PTSD remains pending as its basis is unclear.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 70 percent disabling, reflecting significant occupational and social impairment. His posttraumatic headaches are rated at 30 percent.

The Veteran's service-connected PTSD has been manifested by symptoms such as restricted affect, depressed mood, anxiety, social impairment, and chronic nightmares and sleep impairment that approximate occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity. The criteria for a higher disability rating have not been met.

The Board has remanded the case for further development due to the Veteran's failure to appear for a scheduled hearing.

The Veteran's appeal for an initial rating higher than 10 percent for PTSD, service connection for diabetes mellitus, and arthritis of the neck, spine, knees, and hands is dismissed as his claim for service connection for diabetes mellitus has already been granted.

The Veteran's PTSD has been rated at 30 percent since July 12, 2007. The Board finds that the severity of his symptoms warrants a higher rating from August 19, 2009.

The Veteran's PTSD and TBI have been rated as 30 percent prior to June 20, 2012 and 70 percent thereafter. The Board finds that the evidence does not support a higher rating for either condition.

The Board has determined that the Veteran does not meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD and therefore, service connection cannot be granted.

The Veteran's PTSD has not been shown to cause occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas, warranting a higher rating.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has been received to reopen the Veteran's claim of entitlement to service connection for PTSD. The issue is now on remand for further development.

The Veteran's appeal for an initial disability rating in excess of 50 percent for PTSD from July 18, 2005 to October 10, 2006 has been withdrawn. The case is dismissed.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining a VA mental health examination to determine the current nature and severity of the Veteran's service-connected PTSD and major depressive disorder. The claim for service connection for alcohol abuse as secondary to service-connected PTSD and major depressive disorder is also being remanded.

The Veteran's PTSD with anxiety symptoms and bipolar disorder are found to be related to his service in Vietnam, including the TET Offensive. Service connection is granted for these conditions.