The Board denied the veteran's claim for service connection for ADHD, finding that there was no evidence of aggravation beyond the natural progression of the condition during his military service.
The deciding factor: There is clear and unmistakable evidence that the veteran had preexisting ADHD prior to service. The February 2008 VA examiner found that the veteran's ADHD was not permanently aggravated by his brief military service, and there is no persuasive evidence indicating any superimposed injury or disease during service that resulted in additional disability.
- Claimed conditions
- ADHD
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 23, 2009
- Citation
- 0902458
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Board dismissed the claims for service connection for ADHD and spondylolisthesis, cervical spinal stenosis, and neck strain as they were not ripe for review. The remaining claims are remanded for further development.
- Dismissed
All appeals for higher initial ratings and service connection were dismissed as they were duplicative of previously addressed appeals or due to untimely filings.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for an acquired psychiatric disorder to obtain a more comprehensive medical opinion addressing all diagnosed conditions and properly considering the theory of entitlement.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for ADHD, bipolar disorder, and depression based on the presumption of soundness upon entry into service.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.