Does suicidal thoughts disqualify you from the military?

The military considers any suicide attempts in the past as disqualifying for military service. Additionally, any history of suicidal behavior that includes gestures or discussions about the thought is disqualifying. The military also previously disqualified those that had a history with self-mutilation.

Can I join the military if I was in a mental hospital?

According to the Department of Defense, you’re disqualified from serving in the U.S. military if you have a current diagnosis or a history of most mental disorders. A person with a depressive disorder must be stable, without treatment or symptoms for a continuous 36 months, to be eligible to enlist.

Can a mental illness prevent you from serving in the military?

Military mental health disqualifications can prevent you from serving in the military. The problem with many types of mental illness is the diagnosis is highly subjective. Furthermore, there are varying levels of anxiety disorders and depression.

Can a soldier with depression be discharged from the military?

The military may discharge a soldier who has a mental condition such as depression. Any physical or mental illness that can interfere with a soldier’s duty and performance can be used as grounds for discharge.

How are psychiatric diagnoses and discharges affect the military?

In working with military clients, it is important to discuss the impact of psychiatric diagnoses and discharges on military service and civilian careers. Soldiers and sailors sometimes find that commands view emotional distress as an indication of weakness and unreliability.

Are there medical conditions that prevent you from joining the military?

By Rod Powers. Updated October 14, 2019. Mental health in the military is taken very seriously, not just for the admission into the services, but also staying in the services as well. There are many disqualifying medical conditions to entry and continued service into the military, including several that concern mental health and illness.

Can a person be discharged from the military for mental illness?

The military may discharge for “other designated physical and mental conditions” servicemembers who have conditions that do not qualify for a disability discharge, but “that potentially interfere with an assignment to or performance of duty….”

Why does the military use mental health screening?

The military uses a mental health screening to see if there are any potential red flags that will prevent you from carrying out your role fully with the military. Furthermore, the military wants to verify that you aren’t a danger to yourself or others.

Why do we need mental health counseling in the military?

The need for counseling and legal assistance in this area is increased by the military’s tendency to misdiagnose and underdiagnose psychiatric conditions which might warrant discharge or retirement, or require treatment to prevent suicide or other harm.

Can a person with depression serve in the military?

The military also assesses whether the condition affects your social ability, learning, or work efficiency. You may request a waiver for depression, but depending on the branch your efforts may have better odds.