Are you a veteran struggling with mental health issues and navigating the VA claims process? If so, you’re not alone. Many veterans find themselves in a similar situation, unsure of how to effectively communicate their symptoms and experiences to receive the appropriate rating from the VA.
In this blog post, we’re going to dive into the nuances of VA mental health ratings, specifically focusing on the jump from a 70 to 100 rating. It’s important to understand the criteria and symptoms that are considered when determining your rating, as well as the key differences between the two levels.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to recognize that going from a 70 to 100 rating is not impossible. Many veterans have successfully made this transition, but it requires a deep understanding of the symptoms and their impact on your daily life.
By referencing the CFR (Code of Federal Regulations), specifically Chapter 1 Part 4 Subpart B on mental disorders, we can gain insight into the general rating formula for mental health conditions. The key distinction between a 70 and 100 rating lies in the severity and persistence of symptoms.
At the 70 rating level, you may experience deficiencies in various areas such as work, family relations, school, judgment, and thinking. However, at the 100 rating level, the symptoms escalate to total occupational and social impairment, with examples like persistent dangers of hurting others or an intermittent inability to perform basic activities of daily living, including personal hygiene.
It’s important to note that you don’t need to have every single symptom listed to qualify for a higher rating. Instead, focus on providing examples and evidence of the symptoms you do experience, even if they are not present at the 70 rating level.
Many veterans struggle to open up about their symptoms and experiences, but it’s essential to speak your truth and advocate for the rating you deserve. By sharing your story and providing specific examples, you can increase your chances of receiving a higher rating that accurately reflects your mental health challenges.
If you have questions or need further guidance on VA mental health ratings, feel free to leave a comment below. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to support you through the VA claims process.
