My Mental Illness Was Caused By My Military Service – How Do I Prove It for Disability?

hand against rainy window

Millions of veterans have been treated for mental illness so if you are suffering with one, you are not alone. Common mental illnesses that have resulted from serving in the armed forces include depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Of course, this list is non-exclusive.

Similar to veterans who receive disability compensation for physical illnesses and injuries, if you have a psychological illness or injury resulting from your service, you may be entitled to compensation.

Proving your mental disability is connected to service follows the same requirements for proving your physical disability is connected. For more information on the types of service connections, check out our post here.

Medical evidence is the most effective means of proving a mental disorder was caused or aggravated by your service. In addition, personal statements and statements from loved ones may supplement a claim. However, only a medical professional may provide a diagnosis.

How Is My Mental Disorder Evaluated?
The VA uses a “General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders” and evaluated based on your level of social and economic function. The formula relies on specified symptoms and is rated on a schedule at 100%, 70%, 50%, 30%, 10%, or 0%.

For more information on how disability claims are rated, check out our post here.

In the meantime, below are some mental health resources and crisis hotlines:

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA)’s National Helpline
    • Call at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
  • Veteran Crisis Helpline – Lines for Life
    • Call at 888-457-4838
    • Text MIL1 to 839863.
  • National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
    • Call 1-877-424-3838
    • Confidential chat at veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat/homeless-veterans-chat.
  • Women Veterans Call Center
    • Call 1-855-VA-Women(6636).
  • Real Warriors
    • Call 1-866-966-1020, available 24/7.

If you have more questions about filing a disability claim, please contact us today at (855) 312-5575.