How to Prove a VA PTSD Claim – Insights from a Former VA Rating Specialist

How to Prove a VA PTSD Claim – Insights from a Former VA Rating Specialist

 

 

Interviewer: Let’s talk about Military Sexual Trauma (MST) claims. For combat-related PTSD, you need three key things: symptoms, a diagnosis from the VA, and a clear nexus to a combat situation, which is often shown on your DD214. How does that process work for MST claims?

Former VA Rating Specialist: That’s a great question. First, it’s important to understand that combat-related PTSD claims are sometimes easier to prove if you have something like a Combat Action Badge or Combat Action Ribbon. These awards automatically concede that you were exposed to a stressor, so you don’t need to provide additional evidence that you were in a dangerous situation—just having the award itself serves as proof of the stressor.

Now, MST claims work differently because they’re often underreported and not well-documented. MST is highly personal and difficult for many veterans to talk about, which makes it challenging to gather direct evidence. That’s why the VA looks for “markers” when evaluating MST claims.

What Are Markers in an MST Claim?

Interviewer: Can you explain what markers are and how they help support an MST claim?

Former VA Rating Specialist: Sure. Since MST incidents are frequently not officially reported, the VA relies on indirect signs—or markers—to help establish that the event likely happened. Markers are behavioral or medical changes that suggest a traumatic event occurred. Here are some common examples:

  • Medical records: If you sought medical attention for a sexually transmitted disease (STD) shortly after the incident, that could be considered a marker.
  • Performance decline: If you had a strong service record but your performance ratings suddenly dropped after the event, that’s a red flag.
  • Requests for transfers: If you asked to be reassigned after the event, that’s another possible indicator.
  • Behavioral changes: Increased substance abuse, disciplinary issues, or mental health problems appearing after the incident can also serve as markers.
  • Relationship issues: Trouble maintaining personal or professional relationships can be viewed as evidence of emotional or psychological trauma.

The VA will examine these markers to determine whether it’s at least as likely as not that the claimed MST event occurred during your service.

My Personal Experience with Markers

Interviewer: So the VA examiner is looking at the whole picture—performance records, medical reports, behavioral changes—to establish that the trauma occurred?

Former VA Rating Specialist: Exactly. For example, after Desert Storm, I personally experienced a sharp decline in my performance. I went from being a solid performer to struggling, failing inspections, and eventually receiving a general discharge. That kind of downward spiral is a textbook marker. It signaled to the VA that something significant had happened to me during my service.

Current Symptoms Matter Too

Interviewer: So the markers help establish that the traumatic event happened, but what about the symptoms veterans are experiencing today?

Former VA Rating Specialist: That’s an important distinction. The markers help prove that the trauma occurred, but to get a successful MST-related PTSD claim approved, you also need to show that you’re currently experiencing symptoms linked to that trauma. That’s where the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) comes in. The doctor will focus on your current mental health symptoms—like social and occupational impairments—and document them properly in the DBQ.

Think of it this way:

  • Markers = Evidence that the traumatic event happened.
  • Current Symptoms = Proof that the trauma is still affecting you today.

Markers Are Unique to MST Claims

Interviewer: Are markers used in other types of PTSD claims?

Former VA Rating Specialist: No, that’s a key point. Markers are only used in MST-related PTSD claims. For combat-related PTSD, you need direct proof of a stressor, such as a combat action badge or documentation of an injury. Markers are specific to MST because of the underreporting issue.

Building a Strong MST Claim

Interviewer: What advice would you give to veterans filing an MST claim?

Former VA Rating Specialist: First, request a copy of your VA claims file (C-File). Go through your medical and service records to identify any potential markers. If you notice a decline in performance, disciplinary actions, medical visits, or mental health consultations after the incident, those can strengthen your case.

Second, be thorough and honest when discussing your symptoms with your doctor. It’s crucial that the symptoms are properly documented in the DBQ to connect them to the MST event.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek support from a Veterans Service Organization (VSO). They can help you navigate the process and ensure your claim is properly prepared.

Interviewer: That’s incredibly helpful advice. Thanks for sharing your insights and personal experience—it’ll make a real difference for veterans filing MST claims.

Former VA Rating Specialist: Anytime. Veterans need to know that they’re not alone and that there’s help available.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are based on the personal experiences and professional insights of the former VA Rating Specialist interviewed. They do not reflect the official policies or positions of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or any other government agency. This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Veterans are encouraged to consult with a qualified Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or legal professional for guidance on filing MST claims or addressing any related concerns.