Panic disorder is a distinct diagnosis with its own Statement of Principles, and it is regularly folded into a PTSD or depression claim rather than claimed in its own right. Where it is separately diagnosed, it should be separately claimed.
Why it shows up in veterans
Traumatic exposure, sustained operational stress, and the physiological legacy of hypervigilance all contribute. It frequently emerges alongside post-traumatic stress disorder or a depressive disorder rather than in isolation.
What the Statement of Principles requires
DVA measures every claim against a Statement of Principles (SoP) — a legally binding instrument setting out the only factors that can connect a condition to service. These are the pathways that most often apply, in plain language; the full instrument is linked below.
Experiencing a category 1A or 1B stressor
The severe traumatic experiences defined in the SoP, within specified periods before onset.
Specified psychiatric conditions
Certain existing mental health conditions are listed factors, which matters where PTSD or depression is already accepted.
Specified substances and treatments
Defined substance use and medication histories appear as listed factors.
Inability to obtain appropriate clinical management
Where the stigma or operational tempo of service prevented treatment.
This is the plain-English version. Read every factor of the Panic disorder Statement of Principles exactly as the Repatriation Medical Authority wrote it.
How DVA approaches the impairment assessment
Psychiatric impairment is rated on function — relationships, work capacity, daily activity, travel and self-care. Attack frequency and the extent of avoidance both matter. Assessment is done by clinicians who rate these regularly, because inexperienced assessors consistently under-rate psychiatric impairment.
The evidence that decides it
Most initial liability decisions currently take DVA around 145 days on average, and roughly a third of that is the Department waiting on information. Lodging complete is the single biggest thing within your control.
- A psychiatrist or psychologist report with a DSM-5 diagnosis
- Treatment records showing frequency and management
- Service records establishing the stressors
- Evidence of any accepted comorbid mental health condition
Questions veterans ask about Panic Disorder
My PTSD is already accepted. Is a panic disorder claim worth it?
Usually yes, where it is separately diagnosed. It is a separate condition with a separate SoP, and it contributes to the impairment assessment.
Will claiming affect my treatment access now?
No — and treatment for mental health conditions is available through non-liability health care regardless of whether a claim is lodged or accepted.
Related conditions
Panic disorder rarely appears alone, and each comorbid condition is separately claimable.
Ready to look into a Panic Disorder claim?
Book a no-obligation consult and we will go through whether your circumstances meet the SoP factors, what evidence would strengthen your case, and what to expect next.
This page is general information, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Statement of Principles factors, thresholds, and program details are current as at the update date above but can change — always confirm against your own determination letter and the current SoP instrument. For medical concerns, speak with a qualified health professional; for legal advice, a solicitor experienced in military compensation law.
