Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/16/2008

Question
I tried to enlist in the army when I was 18 but was disqualified at MEPS because I was honest about taking antidepressants as a teenager.  They did not grant me a medical waiver at the time.  I am now 26 and a college graduate, seeking employment.  Am I permantly barred from military service because of this previous medical dq?

Answer
Dear Charlie --

If your need for anti-depressant drugs was situational, and you no longer need them, then you can get a waiver to enter the service.  You will have to be a high quality candidate in all other areas, to earn such a waiver.

Good luck to you.