Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 3/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: I experienced an episode of severe clinical depression during 2003-2004.  I saw 2 different counselors during that time and was put on medication.  I stopped taking the medication in 2004, and I have not had any signs/symptoms whatsoever of the depression since.  I attended college full-time from 2004-2008 and just graduated Aug. '08.  I worked during all four years as well.  I recently (Jan. '09) visited the recruiters office to go dual-track into the Air Force.  I scored very high on my AFOQT and was just about to send in my application for the next OTS selection board meeting when my recruiter informed me that I did not pass the health screening due to my background with depression.  How can it be that after 4 years of having no signs of depression that I am being declined medical clearance.  My recruiter did not have me acquire a clearance from my doctor to assure them that I am clear of the illness.  If this were done, would the decision be different.  I have refuted the decision, and my recruiter has sent off my records to the Air Force Surgeon General for the refute.  How can there be such a strict standard against people who have experienced depression?  I feel strongly like I am being discriminated against.  Do you have any advice?

ANSWER: Rebekah,
How did they find out your past medical history?  Now that they know about it, your recruiter did the right thing and has applied to the Surgeon General's office for a waiver.  He evidently believes (as do I) that you have a good chance of obtaining a waiver since you have not been on medication for the past six months, which is all that's required.  I'm surprised that the waiver application didn't include a letter from you doctor which may tip the scales in your favor, but it's not absolutely necessary.  Your past condition was minor enough that apparently the recruiter felt a doctor's letter wasn't necessary.  No, you're not being discriminated against.  This is just a strange new world you're entering and things are done a little differently than you're used to.
Relax and enjoy your time in the military.
You've made a great choice.
Colonel H

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was just taught to tell the truth, I think it's the whole integrity thing.  I hate the result of having to wait a month, plus the chance of being DQ'd again.  I was SO upset when they told me the result.
About the clearance letter, my recruiter told me the Surgeon General would ask for it if they needed it.
I just want to supply something that will help my chances.  Why won't he allow me to get the letter before we sends my docs to the Sur. Gen.?

Answer
If it helps your case, sure he should wait and include it.  As I said before your past condition was minor enough that apparently the recruiter felt a doctor's letter wasn't necessary. But if I was him I'd include it.  It may be overkill but it's worth it.  You haven't signed any commitment papers yet so you still have control over your life.  Go ahead and obtain the letter and tell the recruiter you insist he not send the package until it's included.  Don't let him try to bully you.  You're talking about your future and to him you're just another few dollars on his paycheck.  Once it's rejected by the Surgeon General you don't get another chance, so it's best to have it right the first time and don't take chances.  If nothing else you'll rest easier knowing you've done all you could.  I really don't think you'll have a problem once the letter is in the package.  You just need proof that you haven't been on medication for at least 6 months.
Good luck, I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.
Hopefully when I hear from you again it'll be Lieutenant Rebekah.
Colonel H