Expert: Howard Lorenz - 3/24/2009

Question
I tried to enlist in the Navy when I was nineteen. Unfortunately, I was suffering from depression and seeing a psychiatrist. The doctor had placed me on several different medications (ex. Lexapro) to try to find something that would work. What they did not know about those medications then was that they can increase suicidal thoughts and tendencies in teenagers and young adults which is what happened to me. The most recent studies on some of these antidepressants now show this to be the case. When I was eighteen, I, unfortunately, overdosed on cold pills while simultaneously taking medication. It was not an attempt to kill myself, but an attempt to get my parents' attention. However, when the Navy found out about this I was PDQ'd for "health reasons" despite the fact that I had scored incredibly high on my ASVAB and had passed all other physical requirements at MEPS. It is now five years later, and I am psychologically and physically healthy. I have not had any medications nor treatment for a doctor for four years. I still want to enlist in the Navy. I want to fight BuMed and obtain a mental health waiver. How do I go about doing this?

Answer
Well the first huddle you are going to have to cross is getting a recruiter that will assist you in doing this.  You need to get a letter from a doctor stating that you are physically and mentally fit for military duty. This may cost some money to get done, but what price are you willing to pay to get in? You have to have all the ammo you need to fight the previous decision by the Navy. The ultimate decision will be with the Surgeon General of the Navy.  

H