Initial Mental Health Evaluation

[ASU_0331]

So finally bit the bullet and started working with local VA mental health clinic.  To be honest, it is a complete and total pain in the ass dealing with a system where face to face communication for me would be ideal in evaluation, but because the VA is still all about COVID masking and social distancing, everything takes place over a damn phone or video conference.  In my opinion, complete and total shit show.

But anyway, anxiety regarding keeping my wife and daughter safe and being able to keep them safe/provide for them with my multiple health issues got to the point that it was hurting my relationship with them and my work.  I am always running scenarios, just like when running an convoy security/escort security, except now the focus is always my wife and daughter.  So I went in started the process of seeing what they could for me.  After all the intake sessions, they suggested prescription based treatment, but I have no desire to go down that road at this time and instead asked for referral to non-drug treatment.

The question is regarding a couple of scales they talked about with me after questioning; specifically the PHQ-9 Depression Scale and the GAD-7 Score.  I scored 18/20 respectively on those two scales.  Other than highly suggesting getting on drugs for treatment, they really didn't indicate what these meant.  Anyone able to help me understand this and if any of this is applicable to a claim that I should file?  Also, does filing a MH claim with the VA get released as information for "extacurricular" activities?  I am an avid hunter with a bull elk hunt in November for example and don't want to be relegated to becoming an archery hunter only.     

[brokensoldier244th]

Released to who? They are medical records, unless there is a signed release, subpoena, or a court order they don't get released to anyone. 

 

GAD can fluctuate in a given day, same as PHQ. They aren't definitive tests on their own, their value is more in establishing trends over time. Can you file a claim? Yes. Is your claim going to hinge on the two tests above? No. 

 

GAD7 is an anxiety base line, pHQ is depression. 

Edited August 15, 2022 by brokensoldier244th

[Dustoff1970]

I have been rated 70% PTSD TDIU and P&T 100% since 1998 and even before that 30 to 50% from 85 to 91.  I also have additional ratings.  I learned a long time ago in both C&P exams and regular doctor interviews to stay focused on my serious to severe PTSD symptoms and NOT TO VOLUNTEER ONE BIT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION that is not directly related to my medical condition/s.

With a friendly or even lady shrink it is easy to babble on and talk smack.  They are trained for this to solicit additional interesting info with friendly smiles and manners.  Mums the word.

Not since about 89 have I never been revaluated and downgraded for my PTSD because I keep the mouth shut. Going on over 30 years now. Hua.

Because of the serious side effects of long term PTSD meds, I stopped taking those meds long time ago and again kept my mouth shut.  I learned to cope without the meds.

Even under the new rating criteria a vets' severe PTSD symptoms does not change.  Stay focused. 

My comment not legal advice as I not a lawyer, paralegal or VSO.

Edited August 28, 2022 by Dustoff1970

[john999]

Oh, how true that is Dustoff.  C&P doctors don't need much to start to mine you answer and come up with you being a personality disorder.  They might ask you how you got along with your parents or how you did in school.  The correct answer is "Great".  Trouble with the law.......never.  I love everyone and everyone loves me except for the three eyed demon that lives in my closet.

[El Train]

19 hours ago, ASU_0331 said:

 Also, does filing a MH claim with the VA get released as information for "extacurricular" activities?  I am an avid hunter with a bull elk hunt in November for example and don't want to be relegated to becoming an archery hunter only.     

No they aren't coming for your guns.  Unless they deem you financially irresponsible if they approve your PTSD claim.  I don't know why that is and I don't know if this is factually true.  But that is what I am told.  Hate to start any false rumors so hopefully someone who know more can chime in. 

I'm 100% PTSD/TBI.  I have my conceal carry license.  Doubt they know about my mental health claim.  If so, oh well, I got it.

Getting treatment only strengthens your claim.  Yes it sucks.  I hated it.  I now only get phone calls once in awhile to see how the meds are working.  They work great, because I'm not taking them.  I was worse off when I did.  But like Dustoff said, less is more sometimes.  I'm pretty much not on their radar anymore.  

[john999]

Unless you have been Baker Acted in Florida they can't just come and get your guns.  If you are suicidal it might be good to lock them up and give someone else the key.  The government needs cause to take a person's guns.

[ASU_0331]

Just an update since original post; I went ahead and submitted a claim for anxiety and depression secondary to my existing disabilities and chronic pain.  Mainly to preserve date, but also since I am in the middle of treatment, the records will be available.  They just combined that claim with my other claim for a host of lower extremity issues that are secondary to my 50% rating of pes planus with plantar fasciitis AND I just received notice that QTC will be contacting me to schedule C&P exams shortly.

One of the fastest responses on submission of a fully developed claim that I have ever seen. 

Edited August 17, 2022 by ASU_0331