Occupational Impairment
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
How your disability affects your ability to work - a key factor in mental health ratings like PTSD.
Why This Matters
Mental health conditions are rated largely based on occupational and social impairment. The rating criteria describe levels like 'occasional decrease in work efficiency' (30%) to 'total occupational impairment' (100%).
Example
For a 70% PTSD rating, you must show 'occupational impairment with deficiencies in most areas' - meaning your symptoms significantly impact your work performance, relationships, and daily functioning.