A mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
Medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatment history, and how your symptoms have changed over time are central to any rating. Psychiatry or psychology notes that describe the frequency and severity of specific symptoms — such as panic attacks, memory problems, sleep disruption, depressed mood, suicidal ideation, or disorientation — directly correspond to the criteria that separate one rating level from the next. Results from mental status examinations, such as findings on affect, thought process, impulse control, or orientation, can support higher rating levels.
Records showing how your condition affects your ability to work are also relevant. Employment records, statements from supervisors, or documentation of job loss or reduced hours can reflect the occupational impairment described at the 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100% levels. Statements from you or people who know you describing difficulties with daily tasks, personal hygiene, relationships, or functioning under stress can help show the social impairment the rating criteria require at each level.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
