What Mental Health Conditions Qualify for VA Disability?
The VA recognizes many mental health disorders as eligible for service-connected disability, including:
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder
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Major Depressive Disorder
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Panic Disorder
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Adjustment Disorders
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Bipolar Disorder
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Schizophrenia and related conditions
To receive disability compensation, establishing that the condition is linked to time in service, either caused or aggravated by your time in uniform.
Establishing a Service Connection for Mental Health Conditions
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A current medical diagnosis – A licensed provider must diagnose your condition.
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An in-service stressor or event – This could include combat, military sexual trauma (MST), or other traumatic events during active duty.
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A medical nexus – A C&P exam or a written nexus letter from a medical professional must connect your diagnosis to your service.
What to Expect from the VA C&P Exam for Mental Health
The Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a critical step. During this evaluation, a VA-contracted examiner will assess how your mental health affects your ability to work and function socially.
Be honest and thorough when describing:
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The severity and frequency of symptoms
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How your condition disrupts work, relationships, and daily routines
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Issues with memory, concentration, sleep, or emotional regulation
VA Ratings for PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety
Mental health conditions are rated using the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders:
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0% – Symptoms don’t impact your life significantly
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30% – Mild to moderate effects on work and social life
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50% – Noticeable decrease in reliability and productivity
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70% – Serious functional impairments across key areas
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100% – Complete inability to work or maintain relationships
If your rating is below 100% but your condition prevents employment, you may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
Denied or Underrated Mental Health Claim? Here’s What to Do
Many valid mental health claims are denied due to missing evidence or unclear service connections. If this happens, you have options:
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File a Supplemental Claim with new evidence
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Request a Higher-Level Review of your file
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Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
The VA disability attorneys at VetLaw are here to guide you through every step, making sure your appeal is thorough, timely, and well-supported.
Why Work with VetLaw’s VA Disability Attorneys?
VetLaw’s nationwide veteran disability appeals attorneys focus exclusively on VA claims and appeals. We know how to present mental health conditions in a way that meets the VA’s strict standards.
Here’s how we help:
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Organize medical evidence and expert statements
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Build a strong case for service connection and accurate ratings
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Handle every step of the appeals process
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Ensure deadlines and paperwork are never missed
Whether you’re just starting your claim or need to challenge a denial, VetLaw is your partner in the fight for the benefits you earned.
Mental Health Support for Veterans
You don’t have to go through this alone. VA disability compensation is about more than money—it’s about recognition, access to care, and peace of mind. Let us help you build a solid claim backed by experience, strategy, and compassion.
Contact VetLaw Today. Call us at (336) 355-8387 to schedule a free consultation, or visit our website to learn more about how we help veterans nationwide get the mental health benefits they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive VA disability for anxiety or depression even if I didn’t serve in combat?
Yes. Any verified in-service trauma—not just combat—can support a claim. This includes events like accidents, witnessing death, isolation during deployment, or other stressful experiences.
How does the VA rate PTSD and other mental health conditions?
Mental health conditions are rated from 0% to 100% in 10% increments. Your rating depends on how much your condition interferes with your ability to function socially and at work.
Can I work and still receive VA disability for a mental health condition?
Yes, you can work and receive benefits. However, if your condition prevents full-time employment, you might qualify for TDIU, which pays at the 100% rate—even if your actual rating is lower.
What if I’ve already been denied?
Don’t give up. You have options—and the experienced VA appeals attorneys at VetLaw are here to help you fight back and win the benefits you’ve earned.
