Posted by afatchic on May 7, 2004, at 21:28:41
In reply to Re: US Military service and psych meds, posted by Cressida on May 5, 2004, at 23:59:06
Matt,
I was in the Air Force for 15 years and I am almost certain that they will not want you if you tell them the truth. If you allow them to diagnose you after you have been on active duty, it's OK, but they won't let you in if you already have the problem.
I was diagnosed with chronic depression while I was on active duty and prescribed meds. They had no problem with me going overseas or into a war zone during that time, but after I got out they would not let me into the reserves.
If you don't tell them of your diagnosis, how will they find out? It's not like they call every doctor in the area to ask if they've seen you.
Perhaps not joining the service is your better choice. There are many ways to serve your country. Being a compassionate dentist is great way.
I wish you all the best.
> Hi Matt, you are indeed caught in a tough bind. I entered the U.S. Army as an E-3 this past Jan 22 and was discharged the following Mar 8 for having a psychiatric history. I did conceal my condition upon enlisting and up until entering service. Upon revealing my history during what's called "The Moment of Truth" during basic training I was EPS'ed (existing prior to service).
>
> I stopped all of my meds many many months before leaving for training and I'm still not taking anything except Strattera for ADD.
>
> I remember being in your situation. I mentioned my history out of principle and morals - I wanted to be honest and hoped for the best. I don't think I would risk mentioning ANYTHING, and chemist is probably safe in suggesting the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. Matt, this is a decision that can alter your career path. Carefully consider the consequences of a "no-go" reaction. If the medication is essential to your mental health and you're discharged, then what will you decide to do in that case? My brother is attending dental school at UNC this coming year. You can work as a dentist in the civilian community.
>
> In consideration to what someone else posted about being forthcoming about your situation, the procedures that applied to me may be different for officers; especially one for whom the government already funded his expensive "training".
>
> Let me conclude that I am positive that a person cannot ENTER military service and take psychiatric medication - if they were to discover you'd be hosed. Taking it after being active-duty is quite different and probably accepted, but only if the proper channels are taken. The best of luck!
poster:afatchic
thread:343508
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040505/msgs/344584.html