ptsd This Is My Evidence So Far. Is It Good?

[Gator 0]

I've read here that the more evidence the better. I just wanted to get an idea of how my evidence looks so far. I'm rated 50% for major depression and I'm also trying to get that raised.

I recently had a C&P for PTSD with a contract doctor. In her report she said, "He is enrolled in school; he is struggling to perform adequately in his academics in order to complete this program. Personally, I am impressed he can complete academic tasks in his current psychological state. He is unemployed because he could not meet the demands and responsibilities required by his work situation. He resigned his last position before he was fired." She alsomentioned bad memory, concentration and being overwhelmed by routine demands in life.

I submitted my most recent copy of my transcript which shows a steady decline in my grades for the past two semesters. Once this semester is over I will be able to show them all Fs.

My wife wrote a statement addressing what things are like for me now. Things like not remembering conversations, trouble sleeping and wanting to go back to the domiciliary but not being able to leave her alone with three daughters under age five.

I'm only betting one of my past employers will return the request for employment information. I spoke to them about it. They will show how much time I lost (which was a lot) but will not address anything concerning disability which the form asks for.

I would love to get an IMO, but there's no money for that and I've only seen VA doctors for the past five years. Those records don't say anything about not being able to work, but they do note the depression is pretty much ongoing. I might ask my psych nurse practitioner to add something about employment prospects. They also include alcohol dependence, two months in the Temple Texas domiciliary for depression and drinking and several different antidepressants.

I'm trying to think of what else I might be able to present.

Does any of it look promising? Will the VA weigh the contract doctor's opinion who did my C&P as if she was a VA doctor? Would the grades preclude any benefit from getting something from Voc Rehab stating I couldn't do that program?

I appreciate any advice. It's been pretty nerve wracking trying to get all this together.

[Notorious Kelly 450]

Gator,

Sounds like you have some good material there.

It doesn't hurt if you can enroll in treatment/group sessions with the VA and get an actual diagnosis of PTSD as opposed to just the C & P.

I identify with your frustration. Others will add their advice.

Thank you for your service and hang in there!

[Gator 0]

Thanks, Kelly.

On the PTSD C&P report, she listed PTSD as Axis I. Wouldn't that be a clear diagnosis?

As far as the group sessions, I did get referred and counseled on some substance abuse and PTSD groups. My problem with that is being around people. I've seen entries in my medical records from just simple phone calls to the VA. I'm thinking I can call and tell them I don't want to attend because I don't feel comfortable and hope that gets entered into my record as well. Or would that hurt my case if I refused treatment?

Your reply and all the other threads on this board have been a huge help in keeping me on track with my claim and my sanity.

[Notorious Kelly 450]

Gator,

You're welcome.

It's good to be honest and get everything in your records, so phone calls can help too.

Just don't keep submitting new evidence because that will delay your claim.

You might consider individual counseling if groups bother you.

I wish you well!