The Board granted a higher initial rating of 70 percent for the Veteran's service-connected somatic symptom disorder with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety, as well as a higher rating of 50 percent for muscle contraction headaches. However, it denied a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) based on a single service-connected disability.
The deciding factor: The evidence established that the Veteran's mental health symptoms more closely approximated the symptoms associated with a 70 percent rating and resulted in significant occupational and social impairment. For headaches, the evidence showed frequent prostrating attacks productive of severe economic inadaptability, warranting a higher rating of 50 percent.
- Claimed conditions
- somatic symptom disorder with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety, muscle contraction headaches
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 70%
- Decision date
- April 21, 2025
- Citation
- A25036420
What this means for you
A partial grant means some issues were granted while others were denied or remanded — common in multi-issue claims. Look at which issues went which way, and how each was argued.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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- Remanded (sent back)
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- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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