Are you a Veteran who is suffering from anxiety due to your time in the military? Please know you are not alone.
Did you know from 2000 to 2012, reports of anxiety disorders in Veterans increased by 327%? In fact, in 2018 alone, more than 1.7 million Veterans reported experiencing mental health issues.
Some people say these numbers have dramatically increased because there has been a greater understanding of mental illness within the Veteran community.
Not only does this mean more Veterans are seeking out help, but it means the VA is excepting disability claims for anxiety.
In this article, we’ll tell you how to get a claim for your anxiety.
How Do I Know If I Have Anxiety?
Anxiety is described as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about a specific event or something with an uncertain outcome. Suffering from anxiety can be hard to deal with, especially on a daily basis.
Some of the most common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Constant worry
- Difficulty breathing
- Restlessness/Trouble sleeping
- Dizziness
- Shaking or trembling
- Irritability
- Chest pains
- Drug or alcohol dependence
What To Do If I’m Struggling With Anxiety?
First, please know you have nothing to be ashamed of, and there is also nothing wrong with seeking help — we strongly encourage it. Mental health issues are very common among Veterans, and you are not alone in your battle with anxiety.
As a Veteran, you are entitled to VA disability benefits and getting the support you need for your service-connected disabilities. When filing your claim for anxiety, the VA Rating Formula for Mental Disorders will be used to determine your VA disability rating on a scale of 0-100%.
However, because the VA does not have one set of rating guidelines regarding mental health conditions, it can be challenging to predict your rating, especially if there is not enough evidence to support your claims.
How to Prepare for Your Anxiety Claim
Want to know how you can ensure a high disability rating for your anxiety? Here are some things you can do to prepare.
- Get ALL of your medical records
- Take note of your daily issues before your exam
- Prepare a statement about your limitations, severe symptoms, and how they affect your everyday life
- Get a buddy letter from the people closest to you who have witnessed your condition
- Contact an experienced VA disability consultant who can help with your claim!
