ptsd Confused And Could Use Some Tips And Advice

[LongTooth]

Hi,

I have recently started the claims process with the VA (I filed an informal claim on 04-Sept-2013

I see a private therapist and have a current diagnosis of PTSD, Bipolar II, poly substance abuse.

My therapist agrees with me that my disorders are SC

I've taken the initiative already to get copies of my DD214 as well as my private medical records. Currently I'm trying to track down my records from when I was placed on a 72 hr hold in a psych ward in 2000.

My prescribing Psychologist, who puts in time at the practice I go to, is also a VA doc.

I guess my question is this. If my therapist tells me that they have diagnosed me with the above disorders does that mean that my Psychologist (the VA doc) had to have signed off on the diagnosis and if so does this mean that I should have an easier time with the VA?

I'm also concerned that I may have to track down treatment records from the Army (I assume those would be in my DD214?) Where would I look for any SMR's that I may need? I also wonder if maybe I should try and track down any relevant records from my old Unit to show things such as an Article 15 and any evaluations done that would show the onset of my conditions.

Also if anybody could advise me of what else I should be doing at this early stage to present an effective claim please feel free to advise me.

Thank you in advance for any and all help

Jason

[john999]

You are being treated at the VA with OTH discharge, correct. That's a plus. Did you claim PTSD and were denied? Have you had a C&P exam? Did you ever see a shrink or were DX'ed with a mental disorder while in the service?

[LongTooth]

My ex wife won't have anything to do with me so buddy statements from that avenue are not going to happen.

I have yet to get treated at the VA I want to make sure I have copies of every last single page of my SMR's and private records before I submit to the VA

I suspect I may have to apply for a DRB to see about upgrading my discharge. I guess the most important thing I'm taking away from all my research is that there are options available if you look hard enough.

[LongTooth]

You are being treated at the VA with OTH discharge, correct. That's a plus. Did you claim PTSD and were denied? Have you had a C&P exam? Did you ever see a shrink or were DX'ed with a mental disorder while in the service?

Hi John sorry for missing your post.

I haven't started treatment at the VA just yet I want to be able to get my hands on everything I need in order to help facilitate the experience. I ended up seeing somebody that I guess diagnosed me as PD , big surprise there, The term I heard being bounced around was.

Personality Disorder Unspecified with suicidal and homicidal tendencies.

I was given Lithium and Prozac while I outprocessed from Ft. Knox KY

hope this info helps.

[LongTooth]

so did anybody catch the 294 mil congress gave the VA to work through the backlog as part of the govt shutdown deal? hope it helps move things along in a significant fashion...

[LongTooth]

So, I'm still here just lurking around.

I finally got the ball rolling on my SS disability claim and they want me to go to the VA and have the VA fill out a form. Does anybody know if I need to go to a VARO or something?

[Nana]

Don't know if you're claiming PTSD. If so, only a VA Psychiatrist can diagnose PTSD Service Connected (C&P Exam) . You mention that your "private" therapist is also VA affiliated. You must seek treatment at a VA Facility for better and faster claim results. Otherwise, you may find yourself seeking/paying for an IMO later. The more experienced members (Carlie, Hardyman, etc) may guide you. I am a veteran speaking from current experience and current changes as far as PTSD requirements.

You do not have to seek treatment at a VA Hospital. A private practice licensed professional can serve you just as well. They may also complete a DBQ form (http://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_ListByDBQFormName.asp), which states,

"PSYCHIATRIST/PSYCHOLOGIST/EXAMINER - Your patient is applying to the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disability benefits. VA will consider the information you provide on this questionnaire as part of their evaluation in processing the veteran's claim. Please note that this questionnaire is for disability evaluation, not for treatment purposes."

The VBA has a smaller time frame to respond once the form is submitted. You will still have to go through the C&P exam.