Military Service

Would I be able to be in the military if you have a mental illness and it is controlled by medication? I use to want to join the army, but I got schizophrenia (well, they're pretty sure it's schizophrenia. my symptoms were of feeling like I wasn't in reality) so now I probably can't join. So as long as my symptoms are controlled how am i less qualified than any other person?

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

I dond't know what the army policy is about controlled issues like this. You should talk to a recruiter and ask them this question.

[Barbarella]

Go to your nearest recruiting office and tell a recruiter what you said on this board.  He/she will have some idea whether you are qualified or not.

[cake2345]

Well, I'm almost positive that the recruitor will say no, and I thought it would be less embarassing if I asked here. I don't feel like telling a person face to face that I have schizophrenia.

[HAMMERHEAD]

NEVER BE ASHAMED OF THE WAY YOUR ARE!!!!! IF YOU BELIVE IN GOD OR NOT WE ARE ALL ONE WAY FOR A REASON.I HAVE ANXIETY/PANIC ALL MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS KNOW AND THEY HELP BY BEING SUPPORTIVE.YOU ARE THE WAY YOU ARE THE ONLY TIME IT'S A PROBLEM IN WHEN YOU DON'T SEEK HELP.

[sdc1213]

Yeah don't be ashame, we all have problems. Everyone single person has a problem they just don't talk about it and keep it under their sleeve the whole time. I have depression and anxiety and I don't care what people think about me :)

Good luck,
Steve

[jmg72]

The link below is for the Army's Standards of Medical Fitness:

http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r40_501.pdf

Schizophrenia is not specifically mentioned, so your entry would likely be based on initial screening.  The publication also includes information on applying for medical waivers in the event that you're denied enlistment based on a medical condition.  I only skimmed through the document, so I could have missed something; I'd suggest going over it carefully and then, if it does appear that you're eligible to enlist, speak to a recruiter.

[freeme]

I am a military police officer and I put people out of the Army because of mental diseases and defects.  Sorry, there is no way that they would let you in.  The army spends thousands of dollars a year training soldiers like you.  Medication is not available every where either, at least it was not in Iraq.

[lexa, jenn, tasha,]

I am in the army and being chaptered out because they believe I have a mental instability, they have controlled me with medications but will not take the time to give me the therapies I need.  in the mean time they have taken away my weapons and ammo and the ability to deploy they are very focus on putting me out.(much to my dismay) I am a good soldier but the army is scared of me I guess the only good thing is I never had a diagnosis before joining up.  the army is very narrow minded on free thinkers and would rather say there is a problem with you and get rid of you.

hope this personal experience help you