Common symptoms
- ▸Intrusive memories / flashbacks
- ▸Hypervigilance, exaggerated startle
- ▸Avoidance of triggers
- ▸Sleep disturbance, nightmares
- ▸Irritability or anger outbursts
- ▸Detachment from others
Common evidence
- ▸DSM-5 diagnosis from a qualified provider
- ▸VA Form 21-0781 stressor statement
- ▸Buddy/lay statements describing changes
- ▸Service personnel records placing you at the event
- ▸C&P exam DBQ for mental disorders
Primary service connection examples
- ▸Combat exposure
- ▸Military sexual trauma (MST)
- ▸Witnessing death or serious injury
- ▸Convoy/IED incidents
Secondary service connection examples
- ▸Sleep apnea aggravated by PTSD
- ▸Hypertension secondary to PTSD
- ▸GERD secondary to PTSD medications
- ▸Erectile dysfunction secondary to PTSD medications
Rating basics
Rated 0/10/30/50/70/100% based on occupational and social impairment. 70% requires deficiencies in most areas; 100% requires total occupational/social impairment.
Common denial reasons
- ✕No verified stressor
- ✕Diagnosis from non-qualified provider
- ✕Examiner says diagnosis doesn't meet DSM-5
- ✕Stressor not corroborated in service records