This video helped me get 100% for mdd from the VA. I've had these issues for 15 years but didn't even realize what it was until I watched this video. I filed the claim by myself and just using my VA medical records and got 100% for it alone. I'm now 100% p&t and largely thanks to this video
Sooo happy for you, Cryptic Nomad! My poor husband and I have never been more frustrated. I can’t imagine how those who have been trying to get help from the VA for literally years upon years!! It’s just not right for our veterans to have to wait so long for assistance from the VA. I never realized it was like this until I started helping my husband.
@@HillAndPonton does 100% for mental health make you unemployable? Because rating criteria is total social or occupation impairment. Or are you able to work with 100% rating for a mental health issue?
I've had other guys I served with that are scared to file for Depression or anything mental because they are scared of loosing their gun rights. Then they said their mental condition would worsen because of them not being able to protect their family or themselves. Great information! Thank you Ladies.
@@UNKNOWN-le2tu If a service member has a physical disability then it can lead to chronic (longer then 6 months) Depression, it comes down to a quality of life issue. Also Depression and PTSD are completely different, so a service member can have both. The VA will do their best to try and link them together to screw over the vet. A service member can have depression but the VA will want to know what triggered it. I despise the VA and hate how they do other Veterans and myself. Thank you for your service and Semper Fidelis!
Im sure if you are in the area of Hill & Ponton Law I would always seek legal counsel on any Veterans behalf. If any Service member isn’t in the are I’m sure you can call them and they will refer you to someone that is aware of federal law. The VA can be a tough cookie, and these ladies & gentlemen can be asset. Especially when it comes to secondary issues. Just FYI Attorney’s have way more power/effectiveness than a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) in getting results. A service member does always have the right to file for Compensation & Pension (C&P Exam) themselves, but results a majority of time are negative. Also, please , make sure you if you do have a current rating (Say 40%) and you do file for yourself, please put on the C&P form (21-526EZ) “Requesting Rating Increase” for whatever rating you have. If not, the VA can reduce your compensation. I promise Brother I’m not trying to be a prick. I just want you to get the proper compensation you deserve. And if a service member submits a lot of evidence that he or she is gonna think will result in a favorable rating usually will result in a long drawn out denial. Then starts the appeals, and when it comes down to it the CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) is the law. I wish everyone the best and I pray you get all that you should.
@@UNKNOWN-le2tu I didn’t mean for you to mention your private medical info, but I’m glad you are now 100% PT and being taken care of. While I do understand your point of view and it worked for you, I must disagree. Just my opinion, and we all know the say about those. A VA Dr. does write the medical opinion it doesn’t mean it is accurate. Outside medical doctors (Civilians) in the specific field you are claiming can write a Medical Opinion as well, and the you can go before the BVA (Board of Veterans Appeals) Judge and get a ruling. This is my job, and this is what I’ve done for the past 10 years, also I’m a disabled Combat Vet. (compensated), 8 years Army. This will be my last statement on the subject but I am very grateful you are being taken care of. Stay safe!
I was discharged from the Navy 30 years ago and have been battling depression for about 20 years and having it get more serious in the last 6-7 years, to the point I make myself physically sick with anxiety. I saw a military psychologist while in service and have sought work related counseling. I applied for disability, mental health disease, and am praying they can back me up. I will use everything you teach and let’s pray for the best for me.
I got 70% rating for depression without the thought of even thinking I could have won any amount of a rating , It came out the blue …. And yeah now days I feel the effects of depression or personality disorder/ anxiety….. I trade a healthy mind for the rating but it is what is… thanks for the video
Thank you so much for sharing, Frank. We have veterans personally close to us who have said the same thing. They would rather work and contribute, but sometimes it's just not feasible. Have you looked into Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability? If you're at 70% and unable to work, you may be able to be compensated at the 100% rating level. Here's our guide: th-cam.com/video/6QZYplYLwZk/w-d-xo.html
Anything related to suicidal idealization warrants 70%. I faced interview and walked out, then I remembered I had about a 10 day event where I had thoughts who would be affected if I weren’t here, due to workplace bullying. Voila! I believe that is what gave me the ticket. 70 rolled into 90. (Actually 83% which rounds up.) Then 100% UI Insurance.
Mine comes in a couple of months. Here we go again, after five years at being 100 they dropped me to 70, my TDIU, and don't list my right knee femoral which they changed the terminology to synovitis. They can't listen to direct disinformation on their end, and even being told point blank over ten times. This makes it premeditated to cut your benefits, and that's criminal. Say hhheeeeeeellloooooooo to The Brig!
Thanks for calmly talking about depression as if you're having coffee it helps veterans like me admit that they have depression . Once I got help I could talk about it too and was awarded a proper rating Thanks to programs like yours. Live free or Die 🇺🇸.
I can’t thank you enough for this video. I didn’t know suicidal ideation was a thing. I had previously discussed this with a private therapist years ago, and now I know I need to talk about this.
You're very much welcome, Ken. We understand these are difficult topics to talk about but it is extremely important to do so. It's a lot more common than the general population thinks.
Im current army getting out. I have told my doctor about all my signs. He looked me in the eyes and said your just getting old your memory isn't a problem. I told him i forgot where i was at while i was driving and didn't know how to get home and im 28. Thank you for this video I thought I had no hope at getting help after I get out.
We are so glad that you found this video helpful! There is always help available, you just must be persistent. Thank you for watching and we wish you the best.
@@Tread_six please apply for compensation within a year of getting out (ETS), that way the VA can’t say it happened in the civilian world. Good luck brother!
I appreciate that a high percent of veteran’s are male. I find that your comments or suggestions of how we might feel, act etc are directed to your male audience. As a female enlisted veteran That suffers with depression/PTSD. I was sexually abused, harassed and threatened for a number of years in the air national guard. I filled three separate sexual abuse and harassment complaints against a commander, Lt Commander and a one star General. In every case all the complaints disappeared! Nobody would tell me where my complaints went, I called headquarters and was told no complaints had been filed. The abuse continued and I believe that it continued because there was no consequence. What became unbearable was the verbal abuse, threats of court martial, demotion and so much more. Who do females talk to, to stop the abusive treatment I received, especially as I was an ‘E9!’. I was forced out of the military because I was taking psychiatric medication to help me function! I’m taking to a V.A. Psychiatrist, but my appointments are not very often and only vie telecommunication. I have been assigned a V.A. approved male psychologist that after three separate appointments doesn’t address the my sexual abuse or sexual harassment. Yes, I need to request a different phycologist, but that is not easy.
Jo An, I can't imagine what you must have gone through and I'm so sorry to that it happened to you. We did interview a licensed psychologist and examiner regarding Military Sexual Trauma and how vets can go about getting help. I highly recommend you check it out here: th-cam.com/video/6KX_UGsn4yI/w-d-xo.html
I was a victim of MST over 37 years ago. This has impacted my life in many ways that are akin to PTSD. Along with that I have had bouts of depression all those years and have dealt with insomnia all that time. You learn to deal with it as soldiers are taught to do. Push it down and move on. Responsibilities of family and providing for them supercede all. However, over the last few years and months it has come bubbling through. I am not sure if all of these issues would be lumped together as I feel they each affect differently. It is quite unnerving and causes me to get sick to my stomach.
I told my C&P doc that if it wasn’t for my wife I’d be a hermit. Difficult for me to elaborate on that but I probably should have mentioned the difficulty maintaining relationships…
I just finished watching your video on depression. I replayed the part for you were talking about the 70% rating and just about everything that you mentioned is what I'm going through now. Currently I am rated at 70% for PTSD but yet the VA still after all these years has not rated me for anything else. I hired some lawyers to handle my claim and when they first gave me my information about it they had said the VA rated me at 70% for PTSD and then put me in a special category where I'm not rated for anything else. I have cervical disc disease in the top of my back and they just found after many MRIs and CT scans a tumor that is in my L5 that is affecting my left leg they also found that in the top half I have bulging discs between my shoulder blades and neck yet they still refused to rate me every time a claim was filed over the years it's been an automatic denial even though they have records showing that I was in a rollover accident while in the military on duty, all the stress from all this and the nightmares and the night sweats and insomnia keeps me extremely depressed and everything you mentioned in the depression video is exactly what I'm going through right now. I've tried to tell my doctor but they just don't seem to listen I've already got all the symptoms from Parkinson's the shaking hands that drooping muscles in my face I have to concentrate on what I'm doing and block out everything else just to even function and many times I've often thought that I would probably be better off not here but I have not gone as far as making plans on how I would do it and I have never attempted suicide but it is constantly bouncing around inside my head.
Yes I suffer from both insomnia and sleeping too much (forgot what she called it)...it's been a struggle thr past few years. I deal with all of the issues that were spoken of in this video all documented through the VA...Ughhh I won't give up 🙏🏾
Wonderful, glad to hear it's been helpful to you! We've also done videos with a mental health C&P Examiner. Check those out here: th-cam.com/play/PLTkJ3iol89nDKWdt_NJ7-jP_Lf75b9CYG.html
I’ve had 70% with 100% unemployability since 2012 and i have another C&P exam coming up which is triggering my anxiety and depression even more which has been really bad even before I knew about the exam.
We are very sorry that you are feeling this way about your upcoming exam. We always say it is best to be honest with your examiner about all of the symptoms you are experiencing. I have linked a great written blog here that we hope will help you feel better about your upcoming exam www.hillandponton.com/seven-dos-donts-candp/
@@yariradreher-morales2349 it was a reevaluation. They do that until you become P&T. After the exam I got the notice that I am now 100% for my disability and not for unemployability. I also am now P&T so things worked out in my favor.
@@FloridaCatholicGuy That's great. I received my 100% TDIU in 2012 also but with P&T so I never had any more exams. Make sure you get your tan DOD ID card form 2765 so you can fly free Space A to any base in the 50 states and 5 territories that have airfields when they are available again. If you're in Florida, you have better chances than most at MacDill AFB, Patrick AFB, NAS Jacksonville, NAS Pensacola, and more. It's a great benefit.
This is primarily the reason I have avoided filing my disability claim since I got out of the Marine Corps back in 1996. Rachel I also commented on your 100% Disability Video.
Stick with it. I felt the same and swore I’d never go back to a VA facility. Fast forward to last year and it’s been a difficult road so far, but at least I got ratings, no thanks to two VSOs though. Educate yourself on the regulations and criteria, get your diagnosis from docs, and know how to use the VA website to upload claims.
Thank you very much for your time and posting. Great info. I took lots of notes. BTW, it was very helpful to put the time index in the SHOW MORE. I copied/pasted that and filled in the information you offered for each. Thank you again. :)
I was diagnosed with chronic and severe depression in 2005 at the Manhattan VA. Right away, I applied to the VA for compensation for depression, and claimed service connection. My psychiatrist then attached a supporting letter to the VA stating that my chronic and severe depression was service connected. But my claim was denied. I was honorably discharge from service in 1992. Following my discharge, I went to work but from 1992 to 2004, I went through uncountable number of jobs. By 2004, I quit my job and ended up homeless in New York City. To keep a long story short, after several denials, in 2015, the VA awarded me 80 percent including my original 20 percent that I was awarded right after my discharge for other issues unrelated to depression. In February 2019, I started the process of claiming 100 percent and unemployable. My VA advocate started the claim process but requested a supporting letter from my doctor. I called up my doctor and asked her for the supporting letter stating how long I have been under her care, and the impossibility of me returning to work. She told me she would be glad to write the supporting letter on my behalf at my next appointment with her. But before my next appointment with her, the pandemic struck, and I couldn’t continue with the claim process, because my doctor said she couldn’t write the supporting letter, even though we have been having telephone counseling, until we are able to have a one on one meeting. Do you think that I have a case? How do I proceed at this point since the pandemic is lasting more than we thought? Thank you.
I was put in different mental institutions twice for clinical depression and those were paid for by the VA but after that I never heard from the VA again. But that was after my service so now, years later, I just accept that I will always have issues with relationships and public interactions and minimal sleep and sometimes family. It is too late for me but please help those who are still young enough to receive guidance with hope of overcoming these ailments.
This was extremely helpful, thank you for sharing! I recently only got 30% service connected “other specified depressive disorder with anxious distress” very strange wording. But, after hearing this, I was defiantly low balled and they down played my symptoms. Without a doubt I should be at minimum 70% for depression alone. I’m total 90%, but with VA’s funny math only get 60%, because the above stated 30%. I have at least a dozen or more secondary’s I’m going to shoot for. Wish I had the funds to hire your firm. Sounds like you would definitely make the process a whole lot easier. Thanks again for all the useful tips!
I need to watch this again and take notes to pass on to my psychiatrist. My instinct is always to downplay everything....but I have many, many of these symptoms...
Your videos are so helpful thank you! I just filed and had my first Exam now I’m just waiting for a rating which honestly is giving me anxiety but I’m hoping for the best
Did you start any VA telehealth or on site appts before filing? I am not thrilled to have started telehealth with the VA and beginning to open up to a person who I think will just use what I say against me.
Yes, I produced medical documents with diagnosis by LT. Col and others. Still delayed, denied to the point where I gave up. State disability referred to same records to determine I was 100% disabled
I have been keeping and organizing a detailed audio journal and typed journal entries from my phone since I joined the military. I've been documenting my mental health for many years now. I know I'm at least at 70% but I still have to wait until I hear back from them. I want to share those entries with a psychologist so they can get full, real time insight into my mental health history for a comprehensive disability rating. I have everything organized and dated because I care enough to make my story easily digestible for them and for myself in the future. I just hope they will consider that whenever I get evaluated. I mostly journal just to supplement connections with others because I often feel misunderstood and it's exhausting having to reiterate and not remember everything.
I did my C&P exam for depression a few weeks ago. When we finished the examiner explained she had a legal responsibility to report me suicidal ideation with a plan which was fun.
Usually means you had an intent to hurt yourself, can’t do much that’s their job. If you didn’t have an intent you just have to be careful how you word it to them so they are aware of how you actually have suicidal ideation but not that you are currently suicidal
@@USMCVetSlots03xx Explaining to them that the VA has done little (and says there's nothing more they can do) to help with the agonizing pain I'm in... The kind of pain that I would not subject an animal to, on a daily basis, and that when my 72 y/o mother passes I'm almost immediately going to seek out a way to legally end my life if my pain remains the same, not because of depression or suicidal ideation, both of which I have but are under control, without a doctor getting their knickers in a twist, is something that I have not found a way to do. They always report me. And it's a seriously stupid waste of time and VA resources.
I have been so afraid to tell anyone about all my symptoms, I am 100% SSD for over 20 years have never been able to hold a job a long time like my other sister and brother, and they say just get over it. I have a bachelors degree and many certificates from many sleepless nights. I have all the symptoms of every category, yes 100%, so at times I might seem normal and others seem like I should be locked up. I am very intelligent, but that only proves IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE. I am on aprox 13 medications.
In today's dollars that'd be around $700...so thanks to inflation since the 70s, you could say they "care more" today than they did then -- $600 more. ;-) -- BR
I have both of the insomnia issues and add panic attacks when you start to fall asleep. I also have the food issues. I just don’t want to eat. They know I have all of that. I’ve been having mental health at VA from almost 3 years I’ve been fighting them almost 23 years.
Don't let your depression go unchecked. It sucks for men especially because we're not one normally to show what may be perceived as weakness. I got out in 05 and suffered depression, eventually ended up self medicating myself into liver disease with a shortened life expectancy. I've seen medical professionals many times over the years and always said I'm fine. I dont know why honesty can be hard to come by when mental health is involved, but try to be as honest as you can. Your life may depend on it.
Thank you. Alot of what you give as examples has been happening years for me. I'm learning everyday as per rights Of a veteran. Hardest part was excepting fact I needed help. I'm a Vietnam vet, did 2 deployments...brother lost battle agent orange 42 yrs old.uncle's WW2, one suicide most likely ptsd before know. I come across vets with issues all time. Hardest part is just except facts you need help. Again thank you
I have attended a C&P Exam and I'm pretty sure that I have the criteria for a rating of 70% but the examiner gave the VA the opinion of my level of depression or PTSD as not service-connected and I was giving nothing but a denial for my conditions. I even attend my online web cam appointments with a Psychiatrist and have expressed suicidal thoughts. I guess it's not about the health of the Soldier but the money the put back into their pockets. I've said if I come across another VA representative after my deployment, I will knock em out right there on the tarmat.
@@terrannelson5839 Negative. The VA is on snail-mode and it looks like I'll be waiting a lot longer. I did however get an appointment for an exam on the Burn Pit issues, which I might tie into my Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
You know what's depressing, I thought the Army was going to bring many opportunities for me, like when I turned 40 I'd be 15 years into a high paying career, with a Masters Degree paid by the GI Bill. I'm 40 years old, nearly broke, got laid off from a deadend job I worked for 19 years, and suffering from PTSD by abuse inflicted upon me in the service. I wanted to be a good soldier, but I got thrown against a wall, knocked out. I wanted to be a part of a training session, but sergeant forced me to do leap pushups in sharp gravel until my hands broke into bleeds, this was already after I'd been given a crutch for a hip fracture. I did the pushups, even though I was a injured. Don't trust the gov! I could qualify for VA disability, but I never saw combat, so I don't think I'm worthy. The Army trained me to be a killer on the battlefield, they did their job but they didn't really think about how the abuse would affect a person in the civilian world. I'd only use PTSD as a defense in court or if I was homeless and couldn't work a job, because too many already using the system as it is!
The VA keeps denying my claim for depression because I didn't get any help for depression while I was active. I was a national guard member from 2009 to 2015. We deployed to Afghanistan in 2010-2011. When we returned I had a lot of mental health issues but was scared to go to the va for them because I thought they would discharge me for them. But now they are denying my claim because I waited. The VA diagnosed me with depression and put me on medication and now won't approve my claim it's ridiculous. If anyone knows what I can do please help.
If you were diagnosed with depression, then they already recognized you have it. Is depression causing you insomnia, or anxiety or excessive daytime sleepiness? Speak to a veteran organization like the American legion, or disabled American veteran's. Or get you a lawyer
On your appeal you have to produce evidence such as markers to prove there was a change in your behavior after returning.DUI, fights displinary actions..Next you need your doctor to say that your depression is due your military service.
I stated my symptoms on a checklist before going overseas of many emotional symptoms just shy of depression (even though I was depressed, frustrated and loosing hope) AND NOBODY did anything, I was sent overseas. That out of my own writing is on record. However, I was so scared of actually verbalizing it because I had a 5 yrs old son and was scared of loosing custody of him and loosing a Top Secret Clearance I needed for my job if I said I was depressed.
My "civilian" psychiatrist was so far ahead of any VA it is still distressing that so many vets do not know about him. FYI: Mental and physical health are directly related. BUT I have had 70 percent (sometimes 90) so it is a matter of medicines to match your body chemistry with your meds and most of all a person who is very close who can and will understand and listen.
So far most of the doctors have had in the VA don't seem to know what they're talking about they keep giving me medicines that do not work and when I tell them they don't work they just up the dose. And you're right mental health and physical health go hand in hand I've been sitting here watching all these videos for the last few days and just about everything they're talking about fits me to a T but for some reason the doctors will not listen to me. Currently my left foot refuses to lift when I go to step up on a curb or something like that and I end up tripping what do they do? They send me to an orthopedic and give me a foot brace that fits in my shoe to hold my foot level instead of dealing with the tumor in my lumbar spine they also said it's not cancerous but they have not run any checks on it to find out they also denied my claims for tinnitus and hearing loss telling me I've only got a 3% loss in my hearing but yet when they sent me to the outside doctor that doctor discovered that I was 50% deaf in both ears and the VA had no problem giving me to hearing aids they pretend like there's nothing wrong with my back even though they found a tumor in my L5 but yet more than a year ago when they're telling me there's nothing wrong they gave me a walker because I could barely walk that's the kind of service I'm getting from the Palo Alto VA and the West LA VA
I got my 50% PTSD rating over 17 years ago when they finally sent me back to Palo Alto 17 years later that same doctor was there ask me three questions then turns around and tells me he's going to leave my rating where it is. When I moved to Bakersfield the VA sent me to a civilian psychiatrist and he completely disagreed with their findings according to him I had gotten worse once he turned his paperwork in a couple of weeks later I received a letter from the VA that they had raised my PTSD rating to 70% every civilian doctor that the VA has sent me two has always disagreed with the va's findings
How sad is it that the VA, in most cases, seem to work against the vets best interest versus a civi doc. It’s the reason I stopped going in the 90s until last year after being family forced to get help. And I don’t even consider this help, I hate the VA but as I’m told, you earned the right to reach out. It only raises anxiety dealing with an entity that openly works against you.
I had a C/P exam last week, he ask me 3 things, easy thing like Miami, IN,/blue/the ring in hand, he asked me repeat back to him about 3 min later. What was the point of that I failed he did it 4 times before I got it right
I'm in the Philippines. I called the VA in Manila. I spoke to a local civilian who told me I wasn't eligible for help because I had no war time service. He told me to go to Hawaii or Guam. I have no money other than 600 dollars a mouth social security. I'm 82 and I served in the USAF from 1956 to 1959. Thank you and God bless for your work.
Thank you for watching! Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 or submit your information on our website so that we may contact you by email. Thank you!
I would have suggested you also look at a "VA Pension" as that'd bring your $600 up to something like, but it's for vets who have war-related service (IIRC) so again, that'd be your main obstacle in YOU case as you've been told you have no war-related service connection. If you HAD, they'd look at what your making now, plus nay "assets" you have, and pay you enough extra to bring you up to a monthly amount of ~$1500 or so, which would help you out quite a bit financially compared it now. This ie great for homeless (let's say for example) vets here in America who DO have wartime service, but get nothing (or little) from the VA re: VA Disability Benefits, but for the same NON wartime service vets on the streets, it does nothing for THEM. Research "VA Pensions" for yourself re: eligibility but again, TMK they require some sort of combat zone/wartime-era connection. Good luck, -- BR
If someone were to be given a higher rating for depression or any other claim. Would the veteran get back pay from the first time they received a payment?
I suffer from having trouble getting to sleep and waking up. VA only gave me 50% rating for it. I am pushing for increase but hopefully. Honestly getting worse over the years. Had a sgt told me every day that I suck at life and should quit. I used to laugh at that but older I get the more I cant help thinking he may have been right. I cant shake it. My job has me teaching firearms so my biggest concern ever bringing that up makes me scared to lose my job because that would be very bad.
Finished C&P last month and no word as yet. Diagnosed with PTSD and Dpression by VA. Combat no record so stressor failed parachute near life death event. Have migraines at 30% on HLR 14 days a month prostrating.
Yes they have denied my depression twice. And the VA won't let my VA psychologist write a letter for me and he is the only person I see. I don't see anyone on the outside, and that brings on my depression.
We are so sorry to hear that you are struggling. I have linked more information about how the VA rates depression here www.hillandponton.com/depression-and-the-va/ Also, please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to help. Thank you!
What if I've suffered for years, and it's only gotten worse throughout my time in service, but I've never sought out long term medical help due to the fact that I do not want to get medically discharged? I'm going on 21 years in, 5+active duty, now reservist with a paired civil service Air Reserve Technician position. I have so many of the things you mentioned. I'm totally afraid and it makes my heart beat crazy to think about opening up about this.
there is no such thing as winning a VA rating. you earn and deserve it. winning denotes randomly getting the rating. just like people who claim you can win the medal of honor. you earn medals and awards, you dont win them.
I was let go of my government job 11 months ago due to depression. They sent me to their doctor to determine if I was fit for the job or not and I was not. That appointment is on record since then I've been getting by with doing Uber. My question is, is that medical proof too old to hold any weight for my claim? I still feel the same way.
I filed for anxiety and Depression sent my private records from Psychologist and Psychiatrist. Both saying service connection to my disability. It was denied because i did not say anything about it when i was in the hospital. It was not denied on medical grounds. Explain that.
Will i still get a C&P exam if i put in a claim for depression &anxiety secondary to my service connected OSA even if i had a good amount of evidence from months of sessions and a NEXUS letter from a psychologist?
I was denied service connection for PTSD, but the C&P examiner said i have MDD, but no service connection or rating, even though I get meds from VA BH, counselor for MST, PTSD at the Vet Center and have completed CBT Therapy for Insomnia and chronic pain...because they sent me to a 3rd party examiner since I work at the VA. A evaluator I filed a complaint about how the exam was conducted, and I have a separate IMO for PTSD with more likely than not, but the VA refuses to accept it.
In very perhaps bittersweet type of way at least I got a reminder that I am not at all pulling one over on the VA or anyone else and that while some days are not too bad, I have had a fair share of ruthless one's. I am definitely not going at like I should be perhaps runnimg around enjoying a retirement with lots of fun and entertainment ane social life etc. There is a little bit of the through the phone or online. However even that is often related to my health conditions and I am just trying to make the best of things and have a sense of humor. I desperately want to recover so that I am not a burden on anyone or getting on people's nerve. However almost everything mentioned here is relevant in my life to one degree or another. So at least I can kinda sorta sometimes sleep soundly that I am not taking advantage of a program that is sometimes perhaps over used. This has always been a concern of mine. I do not want to give Veterans or this type of compensation a bad name. That is just as important to me as the compensation. Anyways I have not and do not use any props. Almost to the contrary. I do not use a cane, even though it did help a bit in the past. I am trying to push myself. I know this is about mental health. I have been deeply bothered by providers saying things like everyone has pain for example. Seriously. I find it hard to believe that everyone has severe and chronic pain. I hope videos like this serve as a reminder to people that can not visibly see or understand what has happened to some of us Veterans. Not every sleeping in a vehicle or under a bridge is lazy or addict etc. Also true that some people live out of van etc as a form of recreation. I did enjoy that part as well. However a large reason why I was living out of vehicles for so many years was due to a deterioration in my physical and mental health. Praying to God for a full recovery and am optimistic about this. However in the process I hope that I won't be judge too much as someone who is apathetic or just doesn't care. That isnt it at all. I've been working really hard on my recovery. I have seen a lot of Veterans who seem to have no interest in therapy treatment or medical care and that is their business. They might not be in the right mindset. It's absolutely infuriating though to have legitimate medical things getting denied by the VA and them getting in the way of my recovery and than have people who didn't ever serve forming the wrong type of opinion. I'm sure things we get better though. Thanks.
What are your thoughts on having a security clearance and depression? Several of us, Veterans are afraid to come forward because we are afraid to lose our highly coveted security clearances! Any thoughts?
I’d say seek a psychiatrist and get proof from someone who is an accredited source. Turn it into the VA with your claim. That’s what I’m understanding at least.
From research and other 100%p&t vets, not necessarily. Only when symptoms are correctly expressed and documented is when your rating increases. You could have PTSD,Depression,Anxiety and Insomnia and be rated at 50% when in reality you would need to be 70% but most times we are not aware of our symptoms because for us it’s “normal” until family brings it up or close circles.
Do you have to leave work for tdiu before it is granted? I have terrible job performance along with all the other 70% rating criteria, I only go because my family needs me to have income to live on, and my mental state of mind goes downhill each and every day I'm there.
Good question, Joseph. Not necessarily...VA does allow some work so long as income is typically around poverty level. If you haven't already, check out our TDIU guide here: th-cam.com/video/6QZYplYLwZk/w-d-xo.html
I am Honorably dischared... deported to Mexico for 23 yrs. now... where can I get medical exam?... I can make an appointment with the VA but I cannot cross the border?...
Hi Ruben, typically you'll want to make sure the VA understands that you are unable to attend an in-person C&P exam due to your deportation. The VA did allow virtual C&P Exams through 2020.
I went for my C&P exam knowing that I had some of the criteria for the 70% rating. They awarded me 50%. I think it is because when they asked me if I had any plans for suicide I said no. I have other criteria in that 70% category. Not sure what to do now.
Would I be able to submit a claim for mental health issues related to a service connected issue without having an official mental health diagnosis? Would a C&P examiner be the one who diagnosed me? Thank you so much for this video. It has really helped me realize that I do have depression. I have thought that most of these symptoms were normal and have had this push through it mentality.
Hi, I was rated 70% for depression based on my symptoms. One of the symptoms I was rated on was (intermittent inability to perform activities of daily living, intermittent inability to perform maintenance of minimal personal hygiene). Should I have been rated at 100% since that symptom falls in the 100% category?
Hi Robinson, thanks for watching. If you believe your rating is not as high as it should be due to your depressive symptoms then you should consider appealing for a higher rating. If you have an active claim give us a call at 800-257-4400 or fill out our free case eval here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
What is the criteria for a veteran to win an appeal for a mental illness condition that could be traded back for over forty years ago, which the VA disability claims department has been denying this veteran benefits for far to many years now?
I'm starting to tear up because I have been fighting depression since 2011 with and OTH discharge. I tried getting an upgrade because i wanted to try to reenlist and redeem myself. But I was denied I don't know what to do. I really stay in the house don't go out my sense of humor is completely gone and my appetite is totally off. Please Help!
Thank you for sharing, Bo. It can be tough to reach out for help so we greatly appreciate you sharing a little of your story. I have a few resources for you to consider. 1. VA discharge upgrades - We don't assist with discharge upgrades. We suggest contacting the Stetson Law Clinic 2. We interview a Licensed Psychologist: th-cam.com/video/9_BdPGGp2Rg/w-d-xo.html AND th-cam.com/video/vmWhYLbr7GY/w-d-xo.html 3. Help for Depression: www.mentalhealth.va.gov/depression/index.asp
Its very discouraging because I went awol due to my depression which started in service but I am in need of desperate help should i just go to the VA. I havent been because Im afraid I will be denied any help because of my discharge. Ive been struggling for 10 years. Never received any tax return because of overpayment while i was AWOL. I've been in and out homeless shelters and staying with friends and really just want some assistance with getting things on track. This pandemic has caused me and my childs mother to split up due to financial hardship.
@@bojaxxson1301 get a friend or family to take you i need to do the same I got upgraded also so there is hope ok my problem is I dont document or go to any doctors and refuse meds
Good ol' VA. 40% real world equals 20% to the VA. 100% real world equals 60% to the VA. I just got a letter from them saying they rated me at 50% for something, yet that 50% adds up to 20%
![[PTSD Veterans] Need to Watch This Ultimate Guide for VA Benefits](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/uU1SxSCm4sU/mqdefault.jpg)
This video helped me get 100% for mdd from the VA. I've had these issues for 15 years but didn't even realize what it was until I watched this video. I filed the claim by myself and just using my VA medical records and got 100% for it alone. I'm now 100% p&t and largely thanks to this video
We are so glad that the videos helped you to receive your rightful benefits!
Sooo happy for you, Cryptic Nomad! My poor husband and I have never been more frustrated. I can’t imagine how those who have been trying to get help from the VA for literally years upon years!! It’s just not right for our veterans to have to wait so long for assistance from the VA. I never realized it was like this until I started helping my husband.
@@HillAndPonton does 100% for mental health make you unemployable? Because rating criteria is total social or occupation impairment. Or are you able to work with 100% rating for a mental health issue?
@@rev6925 I see that nobody ever answered you. The answer has to be NO and it is no. You cannot work if you have 100% unemployability. How could you.
@@yariradreher-morales2349 false you can work with 100
Thanks to this video I got 70% for MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER. THANKS RACHEL YOUR THE BEST, BLESSINGS.
The Cleveland VA is reason for my Clinical Depression.
😂
I've had other guys I served with that are scared to file for Depression or anything mental because they are scared of loosing their gun rights. Then they said their mental condition would worsen because of them not being able to protect their family or themselves. Great information! Thank you Ladies.
Hi Jeremy, we are very glad that you found this video informative!
@@UNKNOWN-le2tu If a service member has a physical disability then it can lead to chronic (longer then 6 months) Depression, it comes down to a quality of life issue. Also Depression and PTSD are completely different, so a service member can have both. The VA will do their best to try and link them together to screw over the vet. A service member can have depression but the VA will want to know what triggered it. I despise the VA and hate how they do other Veterans and myself. Thank you for your service and Semper Fidelis!
Im sure if you are in the area of Hill & Ponton Law I would always seek legal counsel on any Veterans behalf. If any Service member isn’t in the are I’m sure you can call them and they will refer you to someone that is aware of federal law. The VA can be a tough cookie, and these ladies & gentlemen can be asset. Especially when it comes to secondary issues. Just FYI Attorney’s have way more power/effectiveness than a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) in getting results. A service member does always have the right to file for Compensation & Pension (C&P Exam) themselves, but results a majority of time are negative. Also, please , make sure you if you do have a current rating (Say 40%) and you do file for yourself, please put on the C&P form (21-526EZ) “Requesting Rating Increase” for whatever rating you have. If not, the VA can reduce your compensation. I promise Brother I’m not trying to be a prick. I just want you to get the proper compensation you deserve. And if a service member submits a lot of evidence that he or she is gonna think will result in a favorable rating usually will result in a long drawn out denial. Then starts the appeals, and when it comes down to it the CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) is the law. I wish everyone the best and I pray you get all that you should.
@@UNKNOWN-le2tu I didn’t mean for you to mention your private medical info, but I’m glad you are now 100% PT and being taken care of.
While I do understand your point of view and it worked for you, I must disagree. Just my opinion, and we all know the say about those. A VA Dr. does write the medical opinion it doesn’t mean it is accurate. Outside medical doctors (Civilians) in the specific field you are claiming can write a Medical Opinion as well, and the you can go before the BVA (Board of Veterans Appeals) Judge and get a ruling. This is my job, and this is what I’ve done for the past 10 years, also I’m a disabled Combat Vet. (compensated), 8 years Army. This will be my last statement on the subject but I am very grateful you are being taken care of.
Stay safe!
Exactly. I'm not a NRA card carrying gun nut, but I like being able to protect my family. Wrong dx and bye bye guns.
I was discharged from the Navy 30 years ago and have been battling depression for about 20 years and having it get more serious in the last 6-7 years, to the point I make myself physically sick with anxiety. I saw a military psychologist while in service and have sought work related counseling. I applied for disability, mental health disease, and am praying they can back me up. I will use everything you teach and let’s pray for the best for me.
Any follow up on your case?
Update?
I got 70% rating for depression without the thought of even thinking I could have won any amount of a rating , It came out the blue …. And yeah now days I feel the effects of depression or personality disorder/ anxiety….. I trade a healthy mind for the rating but it is what is… thanks for the video
Thank you so much for sharing, Frank. We have veterans personally close to us who have said the same thing. They would rather work and contribute, but sometimes it's just not feasible. Have you looked into Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability? If you're at 70% and unable to work, you may be able to be compensated at the 100% rating level. Here's our guide: th-cam.com/video/6QZYplYLwZk/w-d-xo.html
@@HillAndPonton already 100% TP , I guess it’s what’s best. And I’m thankful to have the benefits… thanks
@@1962FWestgate can I email you
@@FrameRot no
@@1962FWestgatelol
Anything related to suicidal idealization warrants 70%. I faced interview and walked out, then I remembered I had about a 10 day event where I had thoughts who would be affected if I weren’t here, due to workplace bullying. Voila! I believe that is what gave me the ticket. 70 rolled into 90. (Actually 83% which rounds up.) Then 100% UI Insurance.
Listening to this video. I have a C&P exam tomorrow for this. Wish me luck.
Good luck I have mine on February 1st 🙏🏼
How did it go?
@@russell311000still waiting on VA decision
Mine comes in a couple of months. Here we go again, after five years at being 100 they dropped me to 70, my TDIU, and don't list my right knee femoral which they changed the terminology to synovitis. They can't listen to direct disinformation on their end, and even being told point blank over ten times. This makes it premeditated to cut your benefits, and that's criminal. Say hhheeeeeeellloooooooo to The Brig!
Let us know how it goes, fellow Vet!!! Wish you the best! 💕🙋♀️
Thanks for calmly talking about depression as if you're having coffee it helps veterans like me admit that they have depression . Once I got help I could talk about it too and was awarded a proper rating Thanks to programs like yours. Live free or Die 🇺🇸.
Oo Rah!!!
I can’t thank you enough for this video. I didn’t know suicidal ideation was a thing. I had previously discussed this with a private therapist years ago, and now I know I need to talk about this.
You're very much welcome, Ken. We understand these are difficult topics to talk about but it is extremely important to do so. It's a lot more common than the general population thinks.
Suicidal ideation, I also had no idea that this was a term.
Im current army getting out. I have told my doctor about all my signs. He looked me in the eyes and said your just getting old your memory isn't a problem. I told him i forgot where i was at while i was driving and didn't know how to get home and im 28.
Thank you for this video I thought I had no hope at getting help after I get out.
We are so glad that you found this video helpful! There is always help available, you just must be persistent. Thank you for watching and we wish you the best.
Dude, get Everything that you hurt, that hurts documented... Everything! before you get out in writing.
@@halp.3640 I did. I talked to my VES doctors about it and I got my tbi screening soon.
@@Tread_six please apply for compensation within a year of getting out (ETS), that way the VA can’t say it happened in the civilian world. Good luck brother!
Make sure your medical records have all your complaints, before you leave!
Well that was concerning to listen to, and eye opening to reflect while listening. Thank you for spelling it out with descriptions we can recognize.
This was so hard to listen to. I cried every time she mentioned something I go through. 😢
Very informative and entertaining at the same time that I understood much of what was discussed. Great job ladies! More power to you!
I appreciate that a high percent of veteran’s are male. I find that your comments or suggestions of how we might feel, act etc are directed to your male audience. As a female enlisted veteran That suffers with depression/PTSD. I was sexually abused, harassed and threatened for a number of years in the air national guard. I filled three separate sexual abuse and harassment complaints against a commander, Lt Commander and a one star General. In every case all the complaints disappeared! Nobody would tell me where my complaints went, I called headquarters and was told no complaints had been filed. The abuse continued and I believe that it continued because there was no consequence. What became unbearable was the verbal abuse, threats of court martial, demotion and so much more. Who do females talk to, to stop the abusive treatment I received, especially as I was an ‘E9!’. I was forced out of the military because I was taking psychiatric medication to help me function! I’m taking to a V.A. Psychiatrist, but my appointments are not very often and only vie telecommunication. I have been assigned a V.A. approved male psychologist that after three separate appointments doesn’t address the my sexual abuse or sexual harassment. Yes, I need to request a different phycologist, but that is not easy.
Jo An, I can't imagine what you must have gone through and I'm so sorry to that it happened to you. We did interview a licensed psychologist and examiner regarding Military Sexual Trauma and how vets can go about getting help. I highly recommend you check it out here: th-cam.com/video/6KX_UGsn4yI/w-d-xo.html
Love all the support and benefits with such styles of care. Thank you💯
I was a victim of MST over 37 years ago. This has impacted my life in many ways that are akin to PTSD. Along with that I have had bouts of depression all those years and have dealt with insomnia all that time. You learn to deal with it as soldiers are taught to do. Push it down and move on. Responsibilities of family and providing for them supercede all. However, over the last few years and months it has come bubbling through. I am not sure if all of these issues would be lumped together as I feel they each affect differently. It is quite unnerving and causes me to get sick to my stomach.
Very helpful. Been dealing with this on my own for decades with the man up mentality.
Everything in this video completely describes how I feel on a day to day basis
I hope things are getting better for you, Joe. ❤
@@HillAndPonton thank you for taking your time and helping veterans.
I know the feeling! Same with me. Everything she talked about with the exception of planing harm too myself or others is me!! Life is miserable
I told my C&P doc that if it wasn’t for my wife I’d be a hermit. Difficult for me to elaborate on that but I probably should have mentioned the difficulty maintaining relationships…
Same here 🙏🏾
I just finished watching your video on depression. I replayed the part for you were talking about the 70% rating and just about everything that you mentioned is what I'm going through now. Currently I am rated at 70% for PTSD but yet the VA still after all these years has not rated me for anything else. I hired some lawyers to handle my claim and when they first gave me my information about it they had said the VA rated me at 70% for PTSD and then put me in a special category where I'm not rated for anything else. I have cervical disc disease in the top of my back and they just found after many MRIs and CT scans a tumor that is in my L5 that is affecting my left leg they also found that in the top half I have bulging discs between my shoulder blades and neck yet they still refused to rate me every time a claim was filed over the years it's been an automatic denial even though they have records showing that I was in a rollover accident while in the military on duty, all the stress from all this and the nightmares and the night sweats and insomnia keeps me extremely depressed and everything you mentioned in the depression video is exactly what I'm going through right now. I've tried to tell my doctor but they just don't seem to listen I've already got all the symptoms from Parkinson's the shaking hands that drooping muscles in my face I have to concentrate on what I'm doing and block out everything else just to even function and many times I've often thought that I would probably be better off not here but I have not gone as far as making plans on how I would do it and I have never attempted suicide but it is constantly bouncing around inside my head.
Update that finally got my hundred percent rating 70% PTSD and I guess 30% for unemployability so I am now at 100%
@@jimthornsbury9205 congrats, did u get tdiu or schedular
@@edgefinesse4700 I don't know what tdiu is all I know is I got a letter that says I am total and permanent 100%
Yes I suffer from both insomnia and sleeping too much (forgot what she called it)...it's been a struggle thr past few years. I deal with all of the issues that were spoken of in this video all documented through the VA...Ughhh I won't give up 🙏🏾
In some veterans insomnia causes anxiety and depression, in some people migraine headaches
Good luck
They both mean the same thing
Battle, did you get it?
How do you suffer from insomnia and sleeping too much? It is not going to fly with VA.
Wow such a good interview and such detailed answers. I've had to come back to this video multiple times just to finish it and I'm so glad I did.
Wonderful, glad to hear it's been helpful to you! We've also done videos with a mental health C&P Examiner. Check those out here: th-cam.com/play/PLTkJ3iol89nDKWdt_NJ7-jP_Lf75b9CYG.html
Hearing this has really brought me to tears. Im experiencing and have experienced and I just didn't understand why or denying.
Thank you so much for this information! I can't really say how much this helps me understand what I am dealing with
This is an excellent presentation on disability claims for depression. It answered a lot of questions that I have been asking myself...
I’ve had 70% with 100% unemployability since 2012 and i have another C&P exam coming up which is triggering my anxiety and depression even more which has been really bad even before I knew about the exam.
We are very sorry that you are feeling this way about your upcoming exam. We always say it is best to be honest with your examiner about all of the symptoms you are experiencing. I have linked a great written blog here that we hope will help you feel better about your upcoming exam www.hillandponton.com/seven-dos-donts-candp/
@@HillAndPonton thank you for the article.
Another C And P exam, may I ask for what ? You said that you are already 100%. Is it for a SMC ? To become P and T ? I don't understand this.
@@yariradreher-morales2349 it was a reevaluation. They do that until you become P&T. After the exam I got the notice that I am now 100% for my disability and not for unemployability. I also am now P&T so things worked out in my favor.
@@FloridaCatholicGuy That's great. I received my 100% TDIU in 2012 also but with P&T so I never had any more exams. Make sure you get your tan DOD ID card form 2765 so you can fly free Space A to any base in the 50 states and 5 territories that have airfields when they are available again. If you're in Florida, you have better chances than most at MacDill AFB, Patrick AFB, NAS Jacksonville, NAS Pensacola, and more. It's a great benefit.
This is primarily the reason I have avoided filing my disability claim since I got out of the Marine Corps back in 1996. Rachel I also commented on your 100% Disability Video.
Stick with it. I felt the same and swore I’d never go back to a VA facility. Fast forward to last year and it’s been a difficult road so far, but at least I got ratings, no thanks to two VSOs though. Educate yourself on the regulations and criteria, get your diagnosis from docs, and know how to use the VA website to upload claims.
Thank you very much for your time and posting. Great info. I took lots of notes. BTW, it was very helpful to put the time index in the SHOW MORE. I copied/pasted that and filled in the information you offered for each. Thank you again. :)
I want Rachel as my attorney!! Her explanations are superb. Not to mention how cute she is too. Thank you ladies.😀
God Bless you all and your families and friends.
I was diagnosed with chronic and severe depression in 2005 at the Manhattan VA. Right away, I applied to the VA for compensation for depression, and claimed service connection. My psychiatrist then attached a supporting letter to the VA stating that my chronic and severe depression was service connected. But my claim was denied. I was honorably discharge from service in 1992. Following my discharge, I went to work but from 1992 to 2004, I went through uncountable number of jobs. By 2004, I quit my job and ended up homeless in New York City. To keep a long story short, after several denials, in 2015, the VA awarded me 80 percent including my original 20 percent that I was awarded right after my discharge for other issues unrelated to depression. In February 2019, I started the process of claiming 100 percent and unemployable. My VA advocate started the claim process but requested a supporting letter from my doctor. I called up my doctor and asked her for the supporting letter stating how long I have been under her care, and the impossibility of me returning to work. She told me she would be glad to write the supporting letter on my behalf at my next appointment with her. But before my next appointment with her, the pandemic struck, and I couldn’t continue with the claim process, because my doctor said she couldn’t write the supporting letter, even though we have been having telephone counseling, until we are able to have a one on one meeting. Do you think that I have a case? How do I proceed at this point since the pandemic is lasting more than we thought? Thank you.
I was put in different mental institutions twice for clinical depression and those were paid for by the VA but after that I never heard from the VA again. But that was after my service so now, years later, I just accept that I will always have issues with relationships and public interactions and minimal sleep and sometimes family. It is too late for me but please help those who are still young enough to receive guidance with hope of overcoming these ailments.
This was extremely helpful, thank you for sharing! I recently only got 30% service connected “other specified depressive disorder with anxious distress” very strange wording. But, after hearing this, I was defiantly low balled and they down played my symptoms. Without a doubt I should be at minimum 70% for depression alone. I’m total 90%, but with VA’s funny math only get 60%, because the above stated 30%. I have at least a dozen or more secondary’s I’m going to shoot for. Wish I had the funds to hire your firm. Sounds like you would definitely make the process a whole lot easier. Thanks again for all the useful tips!
Any helpful tips for a depression claim, what to say, what sort of documentation or how you tied it to service?
OMG! You ladies hit the nail on the head. I was shaking my "YES" these are my symptoms. 😢😢😥😢😭😭😭😢😢😢😥
This was a comprehensive and excellent video. Thank you ladies for sharing your knowledge.
The saying you are looking for is by Toby Keith's song - I ain't as good as I once was, but I'm as good once
As I ever was
That's it 😀
I need to watch this again and take notes to pass on to my psychiatrist. My instinct is always to downplay everything....but I have many, many of these symptoms...
Your videos are so helpful thank you! I just filed and had my first Exam now I’m just waiting for a rating which honestly is giving me anxiety but I’m hoping for the best
Good luck Bryant!
Did you start any VA telehealth or on site appts before filing? I am not thrilled to have started telehealth with the VA and beginning to open up to a person who I think will just use what I say against me.
Thank you ladies very much.
You are so helpful with this presentation.
Our pleasure! Also here's our mental health C&P exam interview with a Doctor: th-cam.com/video/9_BdPGGp2Rg/w-d-xo.html
Have a teleconference for this today and came across this video. Feeling overwhelmed and scared.
Yes, I produced medical documents with diagnosis by LT. Col and others. Still delayed, denied to the point where I gave up. State disability referred to same records to determine I was 100% disabled
I have been keeping and organizing a detailed audio journal and typed journal entries from my phone since I joined the military. I've been documenting my mental health for many years now. I know I'm at least at 70% but I still have to wait until I hear back from them. I want to share those entries with a psychologist so they can get full, real time insight into my mental health history for a comprehensive disability rating. I have everything organized and dated because I care enough to make my story easily digestible for them and for myself in the future. I just hope they will consider that whenever I get evaluated. I mostly journal just to supplement connections with others because I often feel misunderstood and it's exhausting having to reiterate and not remember everything.
This was very helpful, thank you. It helps take some of the anxiety out of the process.
I did my C&P exam for depression a few weeks ago. When we finished the examiner explained she had a legal responsibility to report me suicidal ideation with a plan which was fun.
Usually means you had an intent to hurt yourself, can’t do much that’s their job. If you didn’t have an intent you just have to be careful how you word it to them so they are aware of how you actually have suicidal ideation but not that you are currently suicidal
@@USMCVetSlots03xx Explaining to them that the VA has done little (and says there's nothing more they can do) to help with the agonizing pain I'm in... The kind of pain that I would not subject an animal to, on a daily basis, and that when my 72 y/o mother passes I'm almost immediately going to seek out a way to legally end my life if my pain remains the same, not because of depression or suicidal ideation, both of which I have but are under control, without a doctor getting their knickers in a twist, is something that I have not found a way to do. They always report me. And it's a seriously stupid waste of time and VA resources.
Just left the mental hospital last week ptsd/anxiety now hypertension
I have been so afraid to tell anyone about all my symptoms, I am 100% SSD for over 20 years have never been able to hold a job a long time like my other sister and brother, and they say just get over it. I have a bachelors degree and many certificates from many sleepless nights. I have all the symptoms of every category, yes 100%, so at times I might seem normal and others seem like I should be locked up. I am very intelligent, but that only proves IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE. I am on aprox 13 medications.
I remember getting 100.00 from the gov’t for ptsd. That’s how much they cared back in the 70s.
Huh
In today's dollars that'd be around $700...so thanks to inflation since the 70s, you could say they "care more" today than they did then -- $600 more. ;-)
-- BR
I have both of the insomnia issues and add panic attacks when you start to fall asleep. I also have the food issues. I just don’t want to eat. They know I have all of that. I’ve been having mental health at VA from almost 3 years I’ve been fighting them almost 23 years.
Don't let your depression go unchecked. It sucks for men especially because we're not one normally to show what may be perceived as weakness. I got out in 05 and suffered depression, eventually ended up self medicating myself into liver disease with a shortened life expectancy. I've seen medical professionals many times over the years and always said I'm fine. I dont know why honesty can be hard to come by when mental health is involved, but try to be as honest as you can. Your life may depend on it.
Thank you. Alot of what you give as examples has been happening years for me.
I'm learning everyday as per rights
Of a veteran. Hardest part was excepting fact I needed help.
I'm a Vietnam vet, did 2 deployments...brother lost battle agent orange 42 yrs old.uncle's WW2, one suicide most likely ptsd before know.
I come across vets with issues all time. Hardest part is just except facts you need help.
Again thank you
Keep fighting!
That is a Toby Kieth song my grandmothers favorite song, Good as I once was but good as Ill ever be
I have attended a C&P Exam and I'm pretty sure that I have the criteria for a rating of 70% but the examiner gave the VA the opinion of my level of depression or PTSD as not service-connected and I was giving nothing but a denial for my conditions. I even attend my online web cam appointments with a Psychiatrist and have expressed suicidal thoughts. I guess it's not about the health of the Soldier but the money the put back into their pockets. I've said if I come across another VA representative after my deployment, I will knock em out right there on the tarmat.
Did you get your rating yet ?
@@terrannelson5839 Negative. The VA is on snail-mode and it looks like I'll be waiting a lot longer. I did however get an appointment for an exam on the Burn Pit issues, which I might tie into my Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
You know what's depressing, I thought the Army was going to bring many opportunities for me, like when I turned 40 I'd be 15 years into a high paying career, with a Masters Degree paid by the GI Bill. I'm 40 years old, nearly broke, got laid off from a deadend job I worked for 19 years, and suffering from PTSD by abuse inflicted upon me in the service. I wanted to be a good soldier, but I got thrown against a wall, knocked out. I wanted to be a part of a training session, but sergeant forced me to do leap pushups in sharp gravel until my hands broke into bleeds, this was already after I'd been given a crutch for a hip fracture. I did the pushups, even though I was a injured. Don't trust the gov! I could qualify for VA disability, but I never saw combat, so I don't think I'm worthy. The Army trained me to be a killer on the battlefield, they did their job but they didn't really think about how the abuse would affect a person in the civilian world. I'd only use PTSD as a defense in court or if I was homeless and couldn't work a job, because too many already using the system as it is!
You are worthy. You don't have to see combat to qualify. You did your time. You deserve compensation for your clear PTSD.
PTSD doesn't have to be combat related. It's what you experienced. It varies from person to person.
Thank you for this info you ladies rock....
The VA keeps denying my claim for depression because I didn't get any help for depression while I was active. I was a national guard member from 2009 to 2015. We deployed to Afghanistan in 2010-2011. When we returned I had a lot of mental health issues but was scared to go to the va for them because I thought they would discharge me for them. But now they are denying my claim because I waited. The VA diagnosed me with depression and put me on medication and now won't approve my claim it's ridiculous. If anyone knows what I can do please help.
Sorry to hear this. I know the struggle I'm still fighting for mine. Don't give up!
If you were diagnosed with depression, then they already recognized you have it. Is depression causing you insomnia, or anxiety or excessive daytime sleepiness? Speak to a veteran organization like the American legion, or disabled American veteran's. Or get you a lawyer
I'm in same boat, been going to VA mental health and prescribed meds
On your appeal you have to produce evidence such as markers to prove there was a change in your behavior after returning.DUI, fights displinary actions..Next you need your doctor to say that your depression is due your military service.
I love your breakdown great video you have helped tremendously
I had complaints of sleep disturbances on my exit physical and that is what I won my award based on. I am 100 percent P and T.
Hi Kay P, disordered sleeping can be a symptom of depression and may have contributed to you earning benefits.
I stated my symptoms on a checklist before going overseas of many emotional symptoms just shy of depression (even though I was depressed, frustrated and loosing hope) AND NOBODY did anything, I was sent overseas. That out of my own writing is on record. However, I was so scared of actually verbalizing it because I had a 5 yrs old son and was scared of loosing custody of him and loosing a Top Secret Clearance I needed for my job if I said I was depressed.
My "civilian" psychiatrist was so far ahead of any VA it is still distressing that so many vets do not know about him. FYI: Mental and physical health are directly related. BUT I have had 70 percent (sometimes 90) so it is a matter of medicines to match your body chemistry with your meds and most of all a person who is very close who can and will understand and listen.
Hi Truman, we are glad that you were able to get the help you needed. Thank you for sharing.
So far most of the doctors have had in the VA don't seem to know what they're talking about they keep giving me medicines that do not work and when I tell them they don't work they just up the dose. And you're right mental health and physical health go hand in hand I've been sitting here watching all these videos for the last few days and just about everything they're talking about fits me to a T but for some reason the doctors will not listen to me. Currently my left foot refuses to lift when I go to step up on a curb or something like that and I end up tripping what do they do? They send me to an orthopedic and give me a foot brace that fits in my shoe to hold my foot level instead of dealing with the tumor in my lumbar spine they also said it's not cancerous but they have not run any checks on it to find out they also denied my claims for tinnitus and hearing loss telling me I've only got a 3% loss in my hearing but yet when they sent me to the outside doctor that doctor discovered that I was 50% deaf in both ears and the VA had no problem giving me to hearing aids they pretend like there's nothing wrong with my back even though they found a tumor in my L5 but yet more than a year ago when they're telling me there's nothing wrong they gave me a walker because I could barely walk that's the kind of service I'm getting from the Palo Alto VA and the West LA VA
I got my 50% PTSD rating over 17 years ago when they finally sent me back to Palo Alto 17 years later that same doctor was there ask me three questions then turns around and tells me he's going to leave my rating where it is. When I moved to Bakersfield the VA sent me to a civilian psychiatrist and he completely disagreed with their findings according to him I had gotten worse once he turned his paperwork in a couple of weeks later I received a letter from the VA that they had raised my PTSD rating to 70% every civilian doctor that the VA has sent me two has always disagreed with the va's findings
How sad is it that the VA, in most cases, seem to work against the vets best interest versus a civi doc. It’s the reason I stopped going in the 90s until last year after being family forced to get help. And I don’t even consider this help, I hate the VA but as I’m told, you earned the right to reach out. It only raises anxiety dealing with an entity that openly works against you.
I had a C/P exam last week, he ask me 3 things, easy thing like Miami, IN,/blue/the ring in hand, he asked me repeat back to him about 3 min later. What was the point of that I failed he did it 4 times before I got it right
I'm in the Philippines. I called the VA in Manila. I spoke to a local civilian who told me I wasn't eligible for help because I had no war time service. He told me to go to Hawaii or Guam. I have no money other than 600 dollars a mouth social security. I'm 82 and I served in the USAF from 1956 to 1959. Thank you and God bless for your work.
Thank you for watching! Please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 or submit your information on our website so that we may contact you by email. Thank you!
@@HillAndPonton Thank you so much. What's your time zone? I'll also search your website.
I would have suggested you also look at a "VA Pension" as that'd bring your $600 up to something like, but it's for vets who have war-related service (IIRC) so again, that'd be your main obstacle in YOU case as you've been told you have no war-related service connection. If you HAD, they'd look at what your making now, plus nay
"assets" you have, and pay you enough extra to bring you up to a monthly amount of ~$1500 or so, which would help you out quite a bit financially compared it now. This ie great for homeless (let's say for example) vets here in America who DO have wartime service, but get nothing (or little) from the VA re: VA Disability Benefits, but for the same NON wartime service vets on the streets, it does nothing for THEM.
Research "VA Pensions" for yourself re: eligibility but again, TMK they require some sort of combat zone/wartime-era connection.
Good luck,
-- BR
If someone were to be given a higher rating for depression or any other claim. Would the veteran get back pay from the first time they received a payment?
Going to my c&p exam Tuesday Feb 13 th 2024 for depression secondary to tinnitus.
I really enjoyed this information you are a eye opener thank you
I suffer from having trouble getting to sleep and waking up. VA only gave me 50% rating for it. I am pushing for increase but hopefully. Honestly getting worse over the years. Had a sgt told me every day that I suck at life and should quit. I used to laugh at that but older I get the more I cant help thinking he may have been right. I cant shake it. My job has me teaching firearms so my biggest concern ever bringing that up makes me scared to lose my job because that would be very bad.
Finished C&P last month and no word as yet. Diagnosed with PTSD and Dpression by VA. Combat no record so stressor failed parachute near life death event. Have migraines at 30% on HLR 14 days a month prostrating.
Should I claim Depression.
Yes they have denied my depression twice. And the VA won't let my VA psychologist write a letter for me and he is the only person I see. I don't see anyone on the outside, and that brings on my depression.
We are so sorry to hear that you are struggling. I have linked more information about how the VA rates depression here www.hillandponton.com/depression-and-the-va/ Also, please feel free to give our office a call at 407-537-9000 to see if we may be able to help. Thank you!
What does the psychologist write in your record? That's probably what the Regional Office is looking at already
@@SandfordSmythe I'll have to look and see what us in there. I'll try and find them in my healthy vet and print them up
Can you guys do a brew video with the proposed changes this year and the new rating formula please? There is no more 0%. Thank you
I have been rated 100% for depressive disorder and schizophrenia.
What if I've suffered for years, and it's only gotten worse throughout my time in service, but I've never sought out long term medical help due to the fact that I do not want to get medically discharged? I'm going on 21 years in, 5+active duty, now reservist with a paired civil service Air Reserve Technician position.
I have so many of the things you mentioned. I'm totally afraid and it makes my heart beat crazy to think about opening up about this.
this was uploaded on my enlistment birthday~
We sincerely hope that you are doing okay. If you feel we may be able to assist you, please feel free to give us a call at 407-537-9000.
there is no such thing as winning a VA rating. you earn and deserve it. winning denotes randomly getting the rating. just like people who claim you can win the medal of honor. you earn medals and awards, you dont win them.
Thanks so much for this video.
Thank you for taking time to help explain....not always easy to understand. But breaking it down like you did was helpful! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! If you have any further questions, we also go live every Wednesday answering VA benefits questions live!
I was let go of my government job 11 months ago due to depression. They sent me to their doctor to determine if I was fit for the job or not and I was not. That appointment is on record since then I've been getting by with doing Uber. My question is, is that medical proof too old to hold any weight for my claim? I still feel the same way.
I filed for anxiety and Depression sent my private records from Psychologist and Psychiatrist. Both saying service connection to my disability.
It was denied because i did not say anything about it when i was in the hospital. It was not denied on medical grounds. Explain that.
I have been diagnosed with depression because of OSA, and I often think about my death. It often causes anxiety.
I have both it is so hard to regulate me mood.. and how i am feeling
Will i still get a C&P exam if i put in a claim for depression &anxiety secondary to my service connected OSA even if i had a good amount of evidence from months of sessions and a NEXUS letter from a psychologist?
Every dr I spoke to is afraid to write a Nexus letter. How did u get ur dr to do this?
So how do you get them to accept the records from service when they won’t use it because it’s not new and relevant
Yes I was denied depression. I have an appeal Aug 17th.
If you have ptsd and depression, which one is better for you to file first?
You can only get compensation for one mental disorder..To know which one to file you need to see which is one is affected you the worst.
I was denied service connection for PTSD, but the C&P examiner said i have MDD, but no service connection or rating, even though I get meds from VA BH, counselor for MST, PTSD at the Vet Center and have completed CBT Therapy for Insomnia and chronic pain...because they sent me to a 3rd party examiner since I work at the VA. A evaluator I filed a complaint about how the exam was conducted, and I have a separate IMO for PTSD with more likely than not, but the VA refuses to accept it.
Lawyer up !! 🎉
In very perhaps bittersweet type of way at least I got a reminder that I am not at all pulling one over on the VA or anyone else and that while some days are not too bad, I have had a fair share of ruthless one's. I am definitely not going at like I should be perhaps runnimg around enjoying a retirement with lots of fun and entertainment ane social life etc. There is a little bit of the through the phone or online. However even that is often related to my health conditions and I am just trying to make the best of things and have a sense of humor. I desperately want to recover so that I am not a burden on anyone or getting on people's nerve. However almost everything mentioned here is relevant in my life to one degree or another. So at least I can kinda sorta sometimes sleep soundly that I am not taking advantage of a program that is sometimes perhaps over used. This has always been a concern of mine. I do not want to give Veterans or this type of compensation a bad name. That is just as important to me as the compensation. Anyways I have not and do not use any props. Almost to the contrary. I do not use a cane, even though it did help a bit in the past. I am trying to push myself. I know this is about mental health. I have been deeply bothered by providers saying things like everyone has pain for example. Seriously. I find it hard to believe that everyone has severe and chronic pain. I hope videos like this serve as a reminder to people that can not visibly see or understand what has happened to some of us Veterans. Not every sleeping in a vehicle or under a bridge is lazy or addict etc. Also true that some people live out of van etc as a form of recreation. I did enjoy that part as well. However a large reason why I was living out of vehicles for so many years was due to a deterioration in my physical and mental health. Praying to God for a full recovery and am optimistic about this. However in the process I hope that I won't be judge too much as someone who is apathetic or just doesn't care. That isnt it at all. I've been working really hard on my recovery. I have seen a lot of Veterans who seem to have no interest in therapy treatment or medical care and that is their business. They might not be in the right mindset. It's absolutely infuriating though to have legitimate medical things getting denied by the VA and them getting in the way of my recovery and than have people who didn't ever serve forming the wrong type of opinion. I'm sure things we get better though. Thanks.
What are your thoughts on having a security clearance and depression? Several of us, Veterans are afraid to come forward because we are afraid to lose our highly coveted security clearances! Any thoughts?
This sounds like I qualify for 70. What do I need to prove it.
I’d say seek a psychiatrist and get proof from someone who is an accredited source. Turn it into the VA with your claim. That’s what I’m understanding at least.
the question is will the rating be higher if It has more than one mental health condition
From research and other 100%p&t vets, not necessarily. Only when symptoms are correctly expressed and documented is when your rating increases. You could have PTSD,Depression,Anxiety and Insomnia and be rated at 50% when in reality you would need to be 70% but most times we are not aware of our symptoms because for us it’s “normal” until family brings it up or close circles.
Is depression separate then PTSD if someone is at 70% just for depression? Can depression and anxiety be added to the rating? Thank you.
No
Do you have to leave work for tdiu before it is granted? I have terrible job performance along with all the other 70% rating criteria, I only go because my family needs me to have income to live on, and my mental state of mind goes downhill each and every day I'm there.
Good question, Joseph. Not necessarily...VA does allow some work so long as income is typically around poverty level. If you haven't already, check out our TDIU guide here: th-cam.com/video/6QZYplYLwZk/w-d-xo.html
I am Honorably dischared... deported to Mexico for 23 yrs. now... where can I get medical exam?... I can make an appointment with the VA but I cannot cross the border?...
Hi Ruben, typically you'll want to make sure the VA understands that you are unable to attend an in-person C&P exam due to your deportation. The VA did allow virtual C&P Exams through 2020.
Both sleep problems also with pain and nightmares waking me up as well.
Great information, thank you for sharing.
I went for my C&P exam knowing that I had some of the criteria for the 70% rating. They awarded me 50%. I think it is because when they asked me if I had any plans for suicide I said no. I have other criteria in that 70% category. Not sure what to do now.
Would I be able to submit a claim for mental health issues related to a service connected issue without having an official mental health diagnosis? Would a C&P examiner be the one who diagnosed me?
Thank you so much for this video. It has really helped me realize that I do have depression. I have thought that most of these symptoms were normal and have had this push through it mentality.
Hi, I was rated 70% for depression based on my symptoms. One of the symptoms I was rated on was (intermittent inability to perform activities of daily living, intermittent inability to perform maintenance of minimal personal hygiene). Should I have been rated at 100% since that symptom falls in the 100% category?
Hi Robinson, thanks for watching. If you believe your rating is not as high as it should be due to your depressive symptoms then you should consider appealing for a higher rating. If you have an active claim give us a call at 800-257-4400 or fill out our free case eval here: www.hillandponton.com/free-case-evaluation/va-evaluation/
If you had one symptom of the 100% and was denied 100% maybe one symptom wasn't enough. Maybe need 2 or 3.
What is the criteria for a veteran to win an appeal for a mental illness condition that could be traded back for over forty years ago, which the VA disability claims department has been denying this veteran benefits for far to many years now?
I'm starting to tear up because I have been fighting depression since 2011 with and OTH discharge. I tried getting an upgrade because i wanted to try to reenlist and redeem myself. But I was denied I don't know what to do. I really stay in the house don't go out my sense of humor is completely gone and my appetite is totally off. Please Help!
Thank you for sharing, Bo. It can be tough to reach out for help so we greatly appreciate you sharing a little of your story. I have a few resources for you to consider.
1. VA discharge upgrades - We don't assist with discharge upgrades. We suggest contacting the Stetson Law Clinic
2. We interview a Licensed Psychologist: th-cam.com/video/9_BdPGGp2Rg/w-d-xo.html AND th-cam.com/video/vmWhYLbr7GY/w-d-xo.html
3. Help for Depression: www.mentalhealth.va.gov/depression/index.asp
Its very discouraging because I went awol due to my depression which started in service but I am in need of desperate help should i just go to the VA. I havent been because Im afraid I will be denied any help because of my discharge. Ive been struggling for 10 years. Never received any tax return because of overpayment while i was AWOL. I've been in and out homeless shelters and staying with friends and really just want some assistance with getting things on track. This pandemic has caused me and my childs mother to split up due to financial hardship.
@@bojaxxson1301 get a friend or family to take you i need to do the same I got upgraded also so there is hope ok my problem is I dont document or go to any doctors and refuse meds
Good ol' VA. 40% real world equals 20% to the VA. 100% real world equals 60% to the VA. I just got a letter from them saying they rated me at 50% for something, yet that 50% adds up to 20%
Wow it sounds like I fall deep into 70%, really wish I could get the va to get me an exam