Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/11/2008

Question
Cynthia,

I am very interested in joining the army. I have wanted to for many years. However, i am worried that my past history with depression will prevent me from doing so. I was diagnosed three years ago with depression and was placed on antidepressants. I did attempt suicide once during that time 3 years go, but have not had any thoughts or urges to attempt again. I have been off of antidepressants for well over a year and have been depression free for at least 2 years.

Answer
Dear Ashley --

Mental illness is usually a disqualifying condition.  However, if the condition was situational and temporary, then you can often get a waiver for your condition in order to enlist.

Only a military medical review can determine whether to grant a waiver or not.  

Before contacting a recruiter, consider what the triggers for your depression were, and whether the stress of military training, and service could be new triggers.  If so, I would recommend you not join the service.  If your triggers for depression were not stress induced, then you could consider the military a possibility.

Good luck to you.