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Depression and Veterans Disability

depression va rating

Depression is a prevalent mental health disorder among veterans, impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. Leah analyzes the relationship between depression and Veterans Disability, exploring the clinical criteria for depression, who can diagnose it, and the various aspects of service connection. Additionally, she will touch on the ratings assigned by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for depression and the interplay between multiple mental health condition ratings.

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Understanding Depression

Depression, as defined by the DSM-5, involves experiencing five out of nine specific symptoms persisting for more than two weeks. These symptoms include depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in weight or appetite, insomnia or excessive sleeping, psychomotor retardation or agitation, loss of energy, worthlessness or guilt, impaired concentration or indecisiveness, and thoughts of death or suicidality.

It is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek help from their healthcare providers. The VA provides a suicide hotline available 24/7 for immediate assistance.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Individuals can be diagnosed and treated for depression by various healthcare professionals, including counselors, psychologists, medical doctors, and psychiatrists. It’s important to note the distinction between psychologists and psychiatrists, as the latter are medical doctors with the authority to prescribe medications.

Additionally, mid-level providers such as physician assistants or nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat depression, although they may not be the typical type of health care professionals to evaluate these conditions during Compensation and Pension (C&P) examinations.

Service Connection for Depression

Service connection for depression can occur on a primary or secondary basis. Primary service connection involves a direct link to active duty, either through a diagnosis during active duty or symptoms that manifested during that period or related to incidents that occurred at that time and possibly developed later as a result. Combat-related incidents or other traumas experienced during service may contribute to primary service connection for depression.

On the other hand, secondary service connection involves linking depression to other service-connected disabilities. For example, chronic pain disorders or the emotional toll of coping with conditions like cancer can lead to depression.

Ratings for Depression

The VA assigns disability ratings for depression based on the level of impairment in an individual’s life. Ratings range from 0 to 100, with 100 indicating the highest level of impairment. A 100 rating for depression may involve substantial declines in cognitive and emotional functioning with many additional complex factors considered.

Less severe forms of depression may receive lower ratings. Adjudicators take into account the impact of depression on a veteran’s overall functioning when determining the appropriate rating.

Can You Be Rated for Multiple Mental Health Conditions?

One common question veterans ask is whether they can be rated for more than one mental health condition. Generally, the VA tends to roll multiple mental health conditions into one rating due to a concept called pyramiding. Pyramiding occurs when there is an overlap of symptoms between different mental health conditions, leading to a consolidation of ratings.

It’s essential to consult with an accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or an attorney, to better understand the specific circumstances surrounding multiple mental health condition ratings and how they may be analyzed.

Conclusion

Depression among veterans is a serious concern, and understanding the intricacies of Veterans Disability for this mental health condition is crucial. Seeking professional help, providing thorough documentation, and navigating the VA’s rating system are essential steps for veterans grappling with depression. Remember, there is support available through the VA hotline and various healthcare providers, ensuring that no veteran has to face depression alone.

Also read: Hypertension and Agent Orange Exposure in Veterans Disability

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

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Danielle McClaskey

Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

Leticia

LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Julie Pereira

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings.  This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

Jennifer Januta

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Leah - Meet the Team

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.