A condition involving physical symptoms related to psychological factors that does not fit other specific somatic categories.
Because this condition is rated under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders, the evidence that matters most is documentation showing how your symptoms affect your ability to work and engage in social and daily activities.
Medical records from mental health providers, primary care physicians, or hospitals that record your diagnosed condition and describe your specific symptoms are central. Findings from VA or private psychiatric or psychological examinations carry particular weight, especially when the examiner documents the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms tied directly to the rating criteria, such as panic attacks, memory problems, speech disturbances, impaired judgment, or difficulties maintaining relationships.
For higher rating levels, records showing hospitalization, crisis interventions, medication history, or a pattern of missed work can help reflect the degree of impairment. Statements from you describing how symptoms affect your ability to complete work tasks, manage daily responsibilities, and maintain relationships are relevant, as are statements from people who observe you regularly, such as family members, coworkers, or caregivers, that describe the same kinds of functional effects.
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.
