VA Mental Health Claim Statistics: One of the Fastest-Growing VA Disability Categories

In recent years, mental health claims have become one of the fastest-growing disability categories within the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. In December 2025, over 2.8 million veterans are now service-connected for mental health conditions, representing a significant increase in awareness and reduction of stigma surrounding mental health. Among these, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) remains the most prevalent condition, affecting nearly 1.6 million veterans.

With a 77% increase in mental health claims since 2020 and 163,644 new claims granted in FY 2024 alone, veterans are more empowered than ever to seek the support they deserve. In this article, we’ll break down the latest VA mental health claim statistics, highlight the conditions on the rise, and explore what these changes mean for veterans still considering filing a claim.

Overview:VA Mental Health Claim Statistics

Category	Condition	Number of Service-Connected Veterans	Year-Over-Year Growth
Mental Health Claims	PTSD	1,589,833 (56% of mental health claims)	16.4% increase in FY2024
	Major Depressive Disorder	359,162 (12.7%)
	Chronic Adjustment Disorder	209,870 (7.4%)
Total Mental Health Claims	All Mental Health Conditions	2,837,602 (Total)	77% increase since 2020

Mental Health VA Claims: By the Numbers

The surge in mental health claims is evident in the data. Since 2020, new mental health claims have risen by an astonishing 77%, from 92,172 in 2020 to 163,644 in 2024. This increase is reflective of the growing awareness around mental health issues and the continued efforts to reduce the stigma that veterans face when seeking help.

Fiscal Year	New VA Mental Health Claims Granted	Year-Over-Year Growth
2020	92,172	—
2021	100,253	+8.8%
2022	122,242	+21.9%
2023	140,556	+15.0%
2024	163,644	+16.4%

PTSD Dominates: 1.6 Million Veterans and Counting

PTSD continues to dominate as the most common mental health condition within the VA system. With over 1.59 million veterans diagnosed with PTSD, it represents over 56% of all mental health-related disabilities. The rise in PTSD claims corresponds with the continued impact of combat experiences and Military Sexual Trauma (MST), as well as the broader understanding of the condition’s long-term effects.

Interestingly, PTSD is the only mental health condition that ranks in the VA’s Top 10 disabilities list, placing 6th overall, just behind hearing loss. Veterans with PTSD typically experience impairments in occupational and social functioning, which directly impacts their compensation rating. PTSD ratings range from 10% to 100%, with compensation ranging from $180.42 to $3,938.58 per month in 2026.

“The rise in PTSD claims signals a significant shift in how mental health is viewed within the military community. As more veterans seek help, it’s a clear indicator that the stigma around mental health is diminishing,” says Dr. Alan Morris, a clinical psychologist specializing in veteran care.

Beyond PTSD: Other Growing Mental Health Conditions

While PTSD dominates, other mental health conditions such as major depressive disorder and chronic adjustment disorder are on the rise.

• Major Depressive Disorder affects 359,162 veterans, or 12.7% of all mental health claims.
• Chronic Adjustment Disorder, which refers to the difficulties many veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, affects 209,870 veterans.

These conditions often co-occur with PTSD, and many veterans have multiple service-connected mental health diagnoses. However, the VA only assigns a single rating for each veteran’s mental health condition, even if they suffer from multiple diagnoses.

“Veterans with multiple mental health conditions often experience a complex web of challenges. It’s crucial for veterans to document all their symptoms and diagnoses to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve,” says Kathleen O’Neil, a VA disability claims attorney.

Why Are the Numbers Exploding?

Several factors contribute to the surge in VA mental health claims, including:

1. Breaking the Stigma: There has been a noticeable shift in how veterans perceive mental health. Younger veterans, especially from the Post-9/11 era, are more likely to seek treatment and file claims. The rise of online veteran communities and peer support groups has also normalized the conversation around mental health.
2. Post-9/11 Combat Veterans: With over 20 years of conflict, veterans from the Global War on Terror (GWOT) are increasingly filing claims for PTSD and related conditions. These veterans make up a significant portion of the current mental health claim surge.
3. Military Sexual Trauma (MST): MST claims have seen an 18% increase in FY 2024, as the process to file these claims has become easier. Behavioral markers and secondary evidence now suffice, making it easier for veterans to establish their service connection.
4. PACT Act: The PACT Act, which expands eligibility for veterans exposed to toxic substances, has led to more comprehensive claims that include both physical and mental health conditions.

“The rise in MST claims is particularly encouraging, as more veterans are coming forward with their experiences. The PACT Act has helped shine a light on the intersection of mental health and physical health, encouraging a more holistic approach to claims,” says Samantha Green, a veterans’ affairs policy analyst.

How the VA Rates Mental Health?

The VA rates mental health conditions using the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders (38 CFR § 4.130), with possible ratings of 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%. The severity of symptoms, including occupational and social impairment, determines the rating.

• 50% and 70% ratings are the most common, with these two categories accounting for nearly two-thirds of all mental health claims.
• Secondary conditions, like migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and sleep apnea, often contribute to higher combined ratings.

“A mental health condition’s impact on daily life how it affects work, relationships, and social functioning is what determines a veteran’s rating. This nuanced approach ensures that veterans with significant functional impairments get the compensation they deserve,” explains Eric Foster, a VA claims expert.

What Mental Health Claims Are Actually Worth in 2026?

VA mental health claims provide essential financial support for veterans. Here are some examples of what veterans can expect in monthly payments, depending on their rating:

• 10% mental health rating = $180.42
• 30% mental health rating = $552.47
• 50% mental health rating = $1,132.90
• 70% mental health rating = $1,808.45
• 100% mental health rating = $3,938.58

Additionally, if multiple conditions are combined such as PTSD with IBS, migraines, or depression the combined VA rating can lead to higher compensation.

How to File a Winning Mental Health Claim?

To receive a mental health rating, you must prove a service connection. This involves:

1. Documenting symptoms and functional impacts on your work, relationships, and daily life.
2. Submitting all necessary evidence upfront, including a medical nexus connecting your mental health condition to your military service.

Pro Tip: During the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam, focus on your worst days and explain how your condition affects your daily life. The examiner will assess functional impairments, not just your diagnosis.

Final Thought

With more than 2.8 million veterans now service-connected for mental health conditions, it’s clear that the landscape of mental health in the military is changing. The rising numbers reflect growing awareness and the lifting of stigma, as veterans from all eras come forward to seek the help they deserve. If you haven’t yet filed a claim for your mental health condition, it’s not too late.

Veterans are not alone in this journey, and there’s support available. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, know that you are not weak, and it’s not too late to claim your VA disability compensation and benefits.

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