Top 10 VA Secondary Conditions to Anxiety and Depression (The Insider’s Guide)

Anxiety and depression are very common in military veterans. In fact, both are among the top 50 VA disability claims. But did you know there are also a bunch of secondary claims you can file to your service-connected mental health conditions?

In this post, Brian Reese the VA Claims Insider will reveal the Insider’s Guide to the 10 most likely VA secondary conditions to anxiety and depression along with detailed explanations and medical research for each condition and connection.

If you’d prefer a shorter version of this post, here’s the top 5 secondary conditions to depression. Let’s begin!

List of VA Secondary Conditions to Anxiety and Depression

• #1: Headaches Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #2: Sleep Apnea Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #3: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #4: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #5: Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #6. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #7. Insomnia Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #8. Weight Gain or Obesity Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #9. Fibromyalgia Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

• #10. Arthritis Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

10 Most Likely Conditions Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

#1: Headaches Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Headaches, particularly tension-type headaches and migraines are common in individuals suffering from anxiety and depression. The relationship between these conditions is bidirectional and complex, involving a mix of neurological, psychological, and physiological factors.

Physiological Factors: Neurochemical changes in the brain associated with anxiety and depression can influence headache activity. For instance, fluctuations in serotonin levels, which are often seen in mood disorders, are also implicated in migraine pathophysiology. Moreover, chronic stress, a common feature in both anxiety and depression, can lead to the tightening of muscles in the neck and scalp. This muscle tension can result in tension headaches, which are characterized by a pressing or tightening feeling around the forehead or back of the head and neck.

Psychological Factors: Anxiety and depression often heighten an individual’s sensitivity to pain, making them more susceptible to headaches. Additionally, the stress and worry associated with anxiety can trigger headaches or exacerbate their severity. People with depression might experience somatization, where psychological distress is expressed through physical symptoms, including headaches.

Behavioral Factors: Lifestyle choices influenced by anxiety and depression can also contribute to the frequency and severity of headaches. These include poor sleep habits, irregular eating patterns, lack of regular physical activity, and overuse of headache medication, which can lead to medication overuse headaches. Additionally, people with depression and anxiety might engage in increased use of caffeine and alcohol, both of which can be potential headache triggers.

Impact on Health: Chronic headaches can significantly impair an individual’s quality of life, exacerbating symptoms of anxiety and depression, creating a cyclical pattern where headaches and mood disorders continually reinforce each other. This cycle can affect an individual’s ability to function in daily life, maintain social relationships, and perform at work.

Current Research: Current research underscores the importance of a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of headaches in the context of anxiety and depression. Psychological therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have been effective in treating both mood disorders and in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches by teaching coping strategies for stress and pain management. Additionally, pharmacological treatments may involve the use of antidepressants that also have prophylactic effects on migraines and chronic headaches.

Ratings: The VA rates headaches secondary to anxiety and depression, including migraines, based on their frequency, severity, and duration, as well as their impact on a veteran’s ability to work.

• 0% rating is given when a veteran experiences mild headaches with infrequent attacks that do not require ongoing medication or treatment.

• 10% rating is assigned for headaches that are prostrating (causing one to lay down) and occur on average once a month over the last several months.

• 30% rating is given when prostrating headaches occur on average once a week.

• 50% rating applies when headaches are prostrating and occur more frequently than once per week but less than daily. This level recognizes that headaches significantly affect a veteran’s ability to work but do not completely prevent employment.

#2: Sleep Apnea Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is commonly associated with anxiety and depression, though the relationship can be complex and influenced by a variety of factors. While sleep apnea is primarily a physical condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, its secondary association with anxiety and depression can exacerbate both the sleep disorder and the psychological conditions.

Physiological Factors: Sleep apnea disrupts normal sleep architecture, leading to fragmented sleep and reduced slow-wave and REM sleep, which are critical for emotional and cognitive processing. The resultant poor sleep quality can exacerbate mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Conversely, the stress and hyperarousal associated with anxiety can worsen the perception of sleep disturbances, potentially heightening the awareness of sleep apnea symptoms like nocturnal awakenings.

Psychological Factors: Chronic sleep disruptions and the resulting daytime sleepiness and fatigue can significantly affect mood, contributing to or exacerbating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, the stress of dealing with a chronic condition like sleep apnea, including concerns about the health consequences and the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, can also increase anxiety levels.

Behavioral Factors: Individuals with anxiety and depression may exhibit poor sleep hygiene or engage in behaviors that can exacerbate sleep apnea, such as the use of alcohol or sedatives before sleep, which relax throat muscles and can worsen airway obstruction. Furthermore, the psychological burden of anxiety and depression might deter consistent use of CPAP treatment for sleep apnea, leading to less effective management of the condition.

Impact on Health: Untreated sleep apnea can lead to significant health issues, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and impaired cognitive function. When combined with anxiety and depression, the overall impact on health can be profound, affecting physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life. The interaction between these conditions can create a cycle of worsening sleep and mental health symptoms.

Current Research: Research highlights the importance of screening for sleep apnea in patients with psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression, as addressing sleep disturbances may significantly improve psychiatric symptoms. Treatments that improve sleep apnea, such as CPAP, have been shown to reduce depressive symptoms and improve quality of life.

Ratings: The VA rates sleep apnea secondary to anxiety and depression according to its severity and the extent of required treatment, impacting a veteran’s daily functioning.

• 0% rating is assigned when a veteran has a documented diagnosis of sleep apnea but experiences no symptoms, or the symptoms do not require treatment with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine.

• 30% rating is given for less severe sleep apnea or when the use of a CPAP machine isn’t always necessary.

• 50% rating applies to cases where sleep apnea causes a significant amount of daytime sleepiness and requires the use of a CPAP machine.

• 100% rating is reserved for chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure), or the need for a tracheostomy. This level indicates extremely severe sleep apnea with major health complications that significantly impair a veteran’s ability to function.

#3: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) involves the backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. While GERD is primarily caused by physiological factors related to the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal motility, anxiety and depression can exacerbate these symptoms or contribute to the perception of their severity.

Physiological Factors: Anxiety and depression can influence the body’s stress response, which may affect gastrointestinal function. Stress and anxiety can increase the production of stomach acid and may also lead to changes in gastrointestinal motility, potentially worsening the symptoms of GERD. Moreover, chronic stress can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, which plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal functions, including the regulation of esophageal sphincter tone.

Psychological Factors: Individuals with anxiety and depression often report higher sensitivity to pain, which can affect their perception of GERD symptoms, making them feel more severe. Psychological distress can amplify the focus on physical discomfort, and the stress associated with persistent symptoms can create a feedback loop, worsening both the psychological condition and the perception of GERD.

Behavioral Factors: Lifestyle choices influenced by mood disorders — such as poor diet, increased use of caffeine or alcohol, and smoking — can also exacerbate GERD. Additionally, anxiety and depression can disrupt sleep patterns, and lying down can worsen GERD symptoms, particularly at night, which can further impair sleep quality and aggravate anxiety and depression.

Impact on Health: The chronic nature of GERD, especially when exacerbated by or exacerbating mental health issues, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. It can lead to avoidance of certain foods and social situations, contributing to dietary deficiencies and social isolation. Furthermore, chronic acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions like esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer if left untreated.

Current Research: Research has shown that treating anxiety and depression may help alleviate some symptoms of GERD. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) not only help in managing anxiety and depression but may also reduce stress-related acid production and perception of pain associated with GERD. Furthermore, managing lifestyle factors, such as improving diet, reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight, are essential components of managing GERD symptoms.

Ratings: The VA assigns ratings for GERD secondary to anxiety and depression based on the severity of esophageal stricture and its impact on a veteran’s health, as follows:

• 0% rating is given for a documented history of esophageal stricture(s) without the need for daily symptoms management or medications. This reflects cases where the condition exists but does not regularly impact daily life.

• 10% rating applies to cases where esophageal stricture(s) require daily medication to control dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), yet the condition remains asymptomatic otherwise. This rating acknowledges a mild, but persistent, need for medical intervention.

• 30% rating is assigned when there is a documented history of recurrent esophageal stricture(s) causing dysphagia that necessitates dilatation no more than two times per year. This indicates a moderate level of medical intervention.

• 50% rating is for cases with a documented history of recurrent or refractory esophageal stricture(s) causing dysphagia which requires significant treatment measures such as dilatation three or more times per year, dilatation using steroids at least once per year, or esophageal stent placement. This reflects a more severe and frequent need for medical procedures.

• 80% rating is reserved for the most severe cases, featuring a documented history of recurrent or refractory esophageal stricture(s) causing dysphagia with at least one of the following symptoms: aspiration, undernutrition, and/or substantial weight loss as defined by § 4.112(a). Treatment for these conditions includes surgical correction of esophageal stricture(s) or the placement of a percutaneous esophago-gastrointestinal tube (PEG tube). This highest rating indicates severe health impacts and significant treatment requirements.

#4: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. The exact cause of IBS is not well understood, but it is known to involve disruptions in the gut-brain axis—the two-way communication system between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. Anxiety and depression can significantly impact this system, exacerbating IBS symptoms or perhaps contributing to the onset of IBS in predisposed individuals.

Physiological Factors: The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in the manifestation of IBS symptoms, with emotional and psychological stress directly influencing gastrointestinal motility and sensitivity. Stress can enhance the intestinal permeability (often referred to as “leaky gut”), alter gut microbiota, and increase gut inflammation, all of which can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Furthermore, neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are implicated in mood disorders, also play a critical role in the functioning of the gut. Disruptions in serotonin levels associated with anxiety and depression could therefore influence gut motility and sensory processing in the gut.

Psychological Factors: Anxiety and depression are associated with an increased focus on and sensitivity to physical discomfort and pain, which can heighten the perception of IBS symptoms. Psychological distress can also exacerbate the stress response, triggering more severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Moreover, the chronic nature of IBS can itself lead to or increase anxiety and depression, creating a vicious cycle where psychological and gastrointestinal symptoms perpetually worsen each other.

Behavioral Factors: People with anxiety and depression may engage in behaviors that worsen IBS, such as poor eating habits, irregular meal patterns, and increased use of caffeine or alcohol. Stress-related changes in lifestyle, like decreased physical activity, can also contribute to the severity of IBS symptoms. Furthermore, the psychological burden of managing a chronic condition like IBS can lead to avoidance behaviors, further increasing stress and potentially exacerbating both the gastrointestinal condition and underlying mood disorders.

Impact on Health: IBS significantly impacts quality of life, with symptoms that can lead to social withdrawal, dietary restrictions, and a general decrease in life satisfaction. The relationship between IBS, anxiety, and depression necessitates comprehensive management strategies to not only treat the gastrointestinal symptoms but also address the psychological aspects, which may be contributing to the disorder’s severity.

Current Research: Current research supports the use of psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and gut-directed hypnotherapy, which have been shown to be effective in reducing both the psychological stress and the severity of IBS symptoms. Medications may also play a role, including the use of antidepressants which can help modulate pain perception and gut motility.

Ratings: The VA rates IBS secondary to anxiety and depression depending on the severity of symptoms as follows:

• 30% rating: Abdominal pain related to defecation at least one day per week during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension.

• 20% rating: Abdominal pain related to defecation for at least three days per month during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension.

• 10% rating: Abdominal pain related to defecation at least once during the previous three months; and two or more of the following: (1) change in stool frequency, (2) change in stool form, (3) altered stool passage (straining and/or urgency), (4) mucorrhea, (5) abdominal bloating, or (6) subjective distension.

#5: Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is defined as the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. While ED can be caused by purely physical factors such as vascular disease or diabetes, it is often exacerbated or even caused by psychological factors, including anxiety and depression. The link between these mental health issues and ED is significant, as both can affect sexual performance and satisfaction.

Physiological Factors: The physiological connection between anxiety, depression, and ED primarily revolves around the nervous system’s response to stress. Both conditions can trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response, releasing adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can interfere with the desire for sex and the ability to maintain an erection. Chronic depression can also lead to changes in brain chemistry that impact the regulation of hormones and neurotransmitters involved in the erectile process, including dopamine and serotonin, which are essential for sexual arousal and performance.

Psychological Factors: Performance anxiety is a common psychological cause of ED. Men with anxiety or depression may worry excessively about sexual performance, which can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy where the fear of ED causes the condition to manifest during sexual activity. Furthermore, low self-esteem and a diminished sense of self-worth associated with depression can also contribute to ED, as these feelings can inhibit sexual interest and arousal.

Behavioral Factors: Men suffering from depression and anxiety may exhibit behaviors that contribute to ED. These include poor lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and inadequate physical activity, all of which can impair blood flow and affect erectile function. Moreover, individuals with mood disorders might avoid intimate situations due to fear of failure, further reducing their sexual activity and exacerbating ED.

Impact on Health: ED can significantly impact a man’s quality of life, affecting emotional and psychological well-being. It can lead to increased stress, strain in relationships, and a reduced quality of life. The presence of ED can also exacerbate depression and anxiety, creating a cyclical pattern where each condition feeds into the other, worsening the overall health of the individual.

Current Research: Research has shown that the treatment of anxiety and depression may alleviate symptoms of ED. Psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective in treating the underlying psychological causes of ED. These therapies focus on changing negative thought patterns about sexual performance and improving self-esteem, which can help reduce anxiety and depression.

Rating: ED secondary to anxiety and depression is assigned a 0% service-connected VA rating under Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Category (K) or SMC-K for “Loss of Use of a Creative Organ.” Veterans with a 0% rating for Erectile Dysfunction qualify for SMC-K and will get additional monthly compensation added to their total monthly VA disability compensation payment.

#6. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, can be influenced by a range of factors including genetics, diet, lifestyle, and underlying conditions. Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression also play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of hypertension. The relationship between these mental health issues and hypertension is complex, involving physiological, psychological, and behavioral dimensions.

Physiological Factors: The physiological link between anxiety, depression, and hypertension primarily involves the body’s stress response systems, including the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. These systems regulate the “fight or flight” response and can lead to increased heart rate and constricted blood vessels, both of which can raise blood pressure. Chronic activation of these stress responses, as seen in prolonged anxiety and depression, can lead to sustained hypertension. Additionally, depression has been associated with changes in the autonomic nervous system that might predispose individuals to poorer cardiovascular regulation.

Psychological Factors: The stress that accompanies anxiety and depression can directly contribute to the development of hypertension. Chronic stress increases the body’s production of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can lead to long-term increases in blood pressure. Furthermore, anxiety and depression often lead to poor emotional regulation and coping strategies, increasing physiological stress and contributing further to hypertension.

Behavioral Factors: Behaviors associated with depression and anxiety can also contribute to hypertension. These may include poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, and substance use (such as increased alcohol consumption and smoking), all of which are risk factors for developing high blood pressure. Additionally, people with depression and anxiety may be less likely to comply with medical treatments and engage in regular monitoring of their blood pressure, leading to poorly managed hypertension.

Impact on Health: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. The presence of hypertension can significantly worsen an individual’s health profile, particularly when coupled with anxiety and depression, which are independently associated with increased risks for various cardiovascular problems.

Current Research: Research suggests that effective management of anxiety and depression may help in reducing blood pressure or mitigating the risk of developing hypertension. Treatments such as psychotherapy, stress management techniques, and medications that target mood disorders could potentially have beneficial effects on blood pressure control. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and other stress-relief strategies are particularly promising in this regard.

Ratings: The VA rates hypertension secondary to anxiety and depression from 10% to 60% with breaks at 20% and 40% depending on the severity of symptoms. A 60% rating is given if the diastolic pressure measures 130 or higher, while a 40% rating is warranted for diastolic pressure ranging from 120 to 129. For diastolic pressure of 110 to 119, or systolic pressure of 200 or higher, a 20% rating is assigned, and a 10% rating is given for diastolic pressure of 100 to 109, or systolic pressure of 160 to 199.

#7. Insomnia Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Insomnia, the difficulty in initiating or maintaining sleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep, is a common symptom in individuals suffering from anxiety and depression. This relationship is typically bidirectional; anxiety and depression can lead to insomnia, and chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate or even trigger anxiety and depression.

Physiological Factors: In terms of physiological connections, anxiety and depression can alter brain chemistry in ways that disrupt sleep. These mental health conditions affect neurotransmitters that regulate sleep, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Furthermore, the hyperarousal associated with anxiety can keep the body in a heightened state of alertness, which impedes the ability to relax sufficiently for sleep. Depression often alters circadian rhythms, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

Psychological Factors: Psychologically, the worry and negative thoughts characteristic of anxiety can make it hard to fall asleep or cause one to wake up during the night and have trouble returning to sleep. Depression may lead to early morning awakenings or an overwhelmingly negative outlook that makes it difficult to find restful sleep. Insomnia related to anxiety often involves difficulty falling asleep, while insomnia related to depression is typically characterized by early morning awakenings.

Behavioral Factors: Behaviorally, individuals with anxiety and depression might engage in poor sleep hygiene practices. For example, they may spend excessive time in bed while not sleeping, use electronic devices before bedtime, or engage in ruminative thought processes while in bed, all of which can exacerbate insomnia. Moreover, anxiety and depression can reduce motivation and energy to maintain a consistent routine, further disrupting regular sleep patterns.

Impact on Health: Chronic insomnia can lead to significant physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease, impaired immune function, and increased risk of accidents. It also has profound impacts on mental health, reducing quality of life, and impairing cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making. The ongoing cycle of poor sleep can worsen the symptoms of anxiety and depression, leading to more severe insomnia in a self-perpetuating cycle.

Current Research: Current research underscores the importance of treating insomnia in the context of anxiety and depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard for treating insomnia. This therapy addresses behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to poor sleep. CBT-I has proven effective in not only improving sleep but also reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Ratings: The VA rates insomnia secondary to anxiety and depression according to the severity of symptoms and the degree to which the insomnia affects occupational and social functioning. Note: If you already have a service connected mental health condition, the VA will not assign a separate rating for insomnia due to the prohibition against pyramiding. Insomnia will be added as a symptom of a current mental health condition.

• 0% rating is assigned when a veteran has a documented diagnosis of insomnia but the symptoms are mild with only a slight impact on social and occupational functioning. This rating is given when the condition requires no more than the occasional use of medication and results in minimal interference with work efficiency.

• 10% rating is given for mild insomnia. In this case, the condition results in some interference with occupational efficiency but only during periods of significant stress, or; symptoms are controlled by continuous medication.

• 30% rating is applied when a veteran has chronic sleep impairment with noticeable decrease in work efficiency due to insomnia symptoms that affect both social and occupational functioning, although not completely.

• 50% rating is for insomnia that results in considerable occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity. This rating covers situations where the veteran suffers frequent episodes of daytime sleepiness or fatigue that impact work efficiency and the ability to perform daily tasks.

• 70% rating is considered when insomnia causes deficiencies in most areas such as work, school, family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood, and the veteran displays signs of chronic sleep impairment with more severe symptoms like constant daytime sleepiness or fatigue affecting all aspects of daily life.

• 100% rating is reserved for total occupational and social impairment due to insomnia symptoms. This rating is given when there is severe insomnia with a total disruption of the ability to maintain any meaningful employment or relationships, coupled with persistent symptoms that are debilitating.

#8. Weight Gain or Obesity Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Weight gain or obesity is commonly observed in individuals suffering from anxiety and depression. This relationship can be influenced by a combination of physiological, psychological, and behavioral factors that contribute to increased body weight and hinder effective weight management.

Physiological Factors: Anxiety and depression can lead to hormonal imbalances that influence appetite and fat storage. For instance, these conditions often result in elevated levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can increase appetite and cravings for high-calorie, carbohydrate-rich foods. Moreover, both anxiety and depression are associated with disruptions in the regulation of leptin and ghrelin, hormones that control hunger and satiety. Imbalances in these hormones can lead to increased food intake and weight gain.

Psychological Factors: Emotionally driven eating behaviors are common in individuals with anxiety and depression, who may use food as a means to self-soothe emotional distress (emotional eating). This can lead to overeating, particularly of foods that are high in fats and sugars, which are thought to improve mood temporarily. Additionally, negative self-perception and low self-esteem associated with depression can exacerbate poor eating habits, as individuals may feel less motivated to maintain healthy dietary practices.

Behavioral Factors: Anxiety and depression often lead to decreased physical activity. Lack of motivation, low energy levels, and withdrawal from social activities can significantly reduce the frequency of exercise, further contributing to weight gain. Sleep disturbances, which are common in these mental health conditions, can also contribute to weight gain. Poor sleep has been linked to disrupted metabolism and increased appetite, compounding the risk of obesity.

Impact on Health: Weight gain and obesity carry their own health risks, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and joint problems, among others. Additionally, the presence of obesity can worsen the psychological burden for those already suffering from anxiety and depression, creating a feedback loop that can be difficult to break. The stigma and physical limitations associated with obesity can further contribute to social isolation and worsen mental health symptoms.

Current Research: Research suggests that addressing both anxiety and depression and their impact on lifestyle factors is crucial for managing weight. Interventions that focus on dietary counseling, physical activity, and behavior modification have been shown to be effective. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms for stress and emotional distress, reducing the reliance on food as a source of comfort.

Ratings: Weight gain or obesity does not have their own VA ratings. Thus, the VA does not directly rate weight gain or obesity as standalone conditions. Instead, weight gain or obesity can be considered in the context of other service-connected conditions it may aggravate or contribute to. For instance, obesity can exacerbate joint issues, heart conditions, or diabetes, which are rateable under their respective diagnostic codes.

#9. Fibromyalgia Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to touch. It often coexists with psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression. The relationship between fibromyalgia and these mood disorders is closely intertwined, where psychological distress can exacerbate the symptoms of fibromyalgia, and the persistent pain and discomfort associated with fibromyalgia can, in turn, lead to or worsen anxiety and depression.

Physiological Factors: Fibromyalgia is believed to involve abnormalities in how the brain processes pain signals, resulting in amplification of painful sensations, a phenomenon known as central sensitization. Anxiety and depression can heighten this process by altering neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which are crucial for mood and pain regulation. Chronic stress associated with anxiety and depression also exacerbates the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can further disrupt the balance of other hormones and neurotransmitters, worsening pain perception.

Psychological Factors: The chronic pain experienced by individuals with fibromyalgia can lead to significant psychological distress. Anxiety about experiencing pain can create a vicious cycle where the individual becomes more sensitive to pain symptoms. Depression can make individuals more focused on their symptoms and less engaged in activities that might distract from the pain or help manage symptoms, such as exercise and social interaction.

Behavioral Factors: People suffering from fibromyalgia, anxiety, and depression may adopt less active lifestyles due to pain and lack of motivation, which can lead to physical deconditioning and worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Poor sleep is another critical factor; fibromyalgia can disrupt sleep due to pain, and anxiety and depression are also known to cause sleep disturbances. Inadequate sleep can impair the body’s ability to repair and regenerate, leading to increased pain sensitivity.

Impact on Health: Fibromyalgia, anxiety, and depression can each significantly impair an individual’s quality of life, and their combination can be particularly debilitating. The overlap of these conditions can lead to greater functional impairment and a higher burden of disease, complicating treatment and management efforts.

Current Research: Recent studies suggest that treating anxiety and depression in patients with fibromyalgia can lead to improvements in pain and quality of life. Treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are effective for managing pain, anxiety, and depression simultaneously. Antidepressants, particularly those that affect serotonin and norepinephrine levels (SNRIs), are commonly used to treat both mood symptoms and pain in fibromyalgia.

Ratings: Fibromyalgia secondary to anxiety and depression is eligible for a VA rating of 10%, 20%, or 40%. The VA rates fibromyalgia based on the severity of symptoms.

• A 40% rating is assigned for cases where the veteran experiences widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points that are constant, or nearly so, and are refractory to therapy. This may include associated symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, stiffness, paresthesias, headaches, irritable bowel symptoms, depression, anxiety, or Raynaud’s-like symptoms.

• A 20% rating is given when these symptoms are episodic but occur more than one-third of the time, often triggered by environmental or emotional stress or by overexertion.

• A 10% rating is applicable when the symptoms require continuous medication for control. This rating structure reflects the varying degrees of impact that fibromyalgia can have on a veteran’s daily life and functioning.

#10. Arthritis Secondary to Anxiety and Depression

Explanation: Arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and physical capabilities. While arthritis is primarily a physical health condition, its chronic nature can lead to or exacerbate psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. Conversely, experiencing anxiety and depression can influence the perception of pain and the overall management of arthritis.

Physiological Factors: The stress response associated with anxiety and depression can exacerbate inflammation, a key component of arthritis. Stress hormones like cortisol, which are elevated in states of chronic anxiety and depression, can disrupt normal immune function and aggravate inflammatory processes. This can lead to increased joint inflammation and pain. Additionally, anxiety and depression can alter how the brain processes pain signals, potentially heightening the perception of arthritis pain.

Psychological Factors: Living with chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can contribute significantly to the development of depression and anxiety. The constant management of chronic pain can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, key features of depression. Anxiety may arise from concerns about the progression of the disease, the potential for increased disability, and uncertainty about the future.

Behavioral Factors: Individuals with arthritis and co-occurring anxiety or depression may engage in less physical activity due to pain or lack of motivation, which can lead to joint stiffness and further pain upon movement. Poor management of stress, irregular sleep patterns, and suboptimal adherence to treatment protocols can all worsen arthritis symptoms. Moreover, some individuals might turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking or excessive alcohol use, which can further deteriorate joint health and overall wellbeing.

Impact on Health: The interplay between arthritis, anxiety, and depression can create a vicious cycle where each condition potentially worsens the others. Poor mental health can lead to worse outcomes in arthritis management, while uncontrolled arthritis symptoms can deepen psychological distress. This cycle can affect an individual’s ability to engage fully in life, from social interactions to work productivity.

Current Research: Research highlights the importance of addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of arthritis to improve patient outcomes. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and can also help patients better manage chronic pain. Antidepressants may be prescribed not only for their mood-regulating effects but also for their pain-relieving properties in certain cases.

Ratings: Arthritis secondary to anxiety and depression is usually rated between 10% and 50% with breaks at 20%, 30%, and 40% depending on the severity of symptoms.

• Arthritis unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation rate the major (dominant) at 50% and the minor (non-dominant) at 40%.

• Any other position, except favorable rate the major at 40% and the minor at 30%.

• Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion rate the major at 30% and the minor at 20%.

• Dorsiflexion less than 15° rate the major and minor at 10%.

• Palmar flexion limited in line with forearm rate the major and minor at 10%.

About the Author

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Brian Reese

Brian Reese is one of the top VA disability benefits experts in the world and bestselling author of You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits You’ve Earned (Second Edition).

Brian’s frustration with the VA claim process led him to create VA Claims Insider, which provides disabled veterans with tips, strategies, and lessons learned to win their VA disability compensation claim, faster, even if they’ve already filed, been denied, gave up, or don’t know where to start. 

As the founder of VA Claims Insider and CEO of Military Disability Made Easy, he has helped serve more than 10 million military members and veterans since 2013 through free online educational resources.

He is a former active duty Air Force officer with extensive experience leading hundreds of individuals and multi-functional teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour to Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, and he holds an MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, Stillwater, OK, where he was a National Honor Scholar (Top 1% of Graduate School class).