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thanks again to everyone for your replies. This sight has really been a breath of fresh air, not only for the information that has helped me, but seeing so many other vets getting the help they deserve. I have begun seeing a mental health professional and right now just glad to be seeing someone in the hopes that I may be able to get out of this funk. My social security has been approved so that has helped to relieve some of the fianancial stesses. If I don't have any success in dealing with the depression/anxiety I'm sure I will apply just want to make sure that I have it coming.

Mine was granted first time took about 6 months can't get anywhere with va however.

The class is intro to therapy. I guess it was designed with the hopes that you could learn some coping techniques that would help you along untill they can find room for you in a group or one on one therapy. As I said it was pretty fruitless, the last one I sat there almost in tears thinking, this all you have? The people running the class mean well its just that its too little for too many.

I have been attending classes at va which seem to be pretty fruitless, but have now made an appointment to see a civilian dr. about the depression. I have also applied for social security but have had no resopnse thus far, although I am not very hopeful, because of my age I am still keeping my fingers crossed. I can't thank all of you enough for if nothing else, it has caused me to get off my duff and try to do something to get out of this funk. It breaks my heart to read all the problems that the vets in these forums are having with va. as if it isn't hard enough to try to deal with what they are going thru but to find the strength to fight those that should be helping them. So again thank you all for your responses and the best to all of you. Bill

Thank you both so much for your time! I really appreciate it!

I have 20% SC for Bi-Lateral Knee Arthritis, and because of this have been unable to work for over a year. I have been to a Civilian Doctor and he has told me that the only option I have to fix my knee problems are total knee replacement. During this time I have developed anxiety and depression as a result of feeling helpless to provide properly for my family, as well as other things. It has also come to light recently that I have back and hip problems as well. I currently have an appeal going for the 20% I am receiving for my Arthritis, but I was curious if I need to start an entirely new claim for the other problems that I have incurred. If I do file new claim, could that possibly cause problems with my current appeal? Any information to this subject would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for your time!