Depression occurs in veterans at a much higher rate than in the general population. It’s estimated that up to 14% of service members experience depression after deployment. However, many veterans have a problem proving a service connection to their depression.
Symptoms of depression include:
Military service brings with it a complicated and often dangerous set of tasks, responsibilities, and experiences. The job usually takes a toll on a service member’s physical and mental health, creating lifelong problems. For this reason, service-disabled veterans can file a claim with the VA for compensation.
Based on the severity of your illness, syndrome, or injury, the VA will assign a disability rating to your particular situation. The ratings start at 0% and go up to 100% in 10% increments. They can be added together (although unlikely) but your overall rating can not go beyond 100%.
The first step in obtaining your VA rating is to submit an initial claim with all of your medical and military documentation. This includes your military medical records, service records, results of an independent medical exam, and personal statements from you and possibly others. You may be required to submit documentation of any conditions you had before entering the service.
Military Veterans' Lawyer Blog